J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2010 Jan;49(1):90-103.

A Seven-Year Panel Study on North Korean Defectors Perception and Satisfaction on Life in South Korea

• Jeon WT
• Yu SE
• Eom JS

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
North Korean defectors' comprehension of South Korean society and satisfaction with their lives in South Korea both symbolize their adaptation to their new society. The current report is an analysis of three serial panel studies of 200 North Korean defectors who entered South Korea in 2000.
METHODS
From February 2009 to March 2009, we interviewed 121 defectors face-to-face.
RESULTS
The results showed that the participant's satisfaction level had been relatively well-maintained, and their understanding of the South Korean culture and language had increased. However, their attitudes toward fellow North Korean defectors had worsened. Their satisfaction level with government support for medical care was very low. Gender, age, level of education in North Korea, Communist Party membership, completion of military service, and current employment status had significant influences on their interpretation and understanding of South Korea.
CONCLUSION
The results suggest creating North Korean defector self-help groups, strengthening the medical support system, developing programs tailored according to defectors' different backgrounds, gender, age, and educational levels, as well as increasing South Koreans' awareness of these North Koreans through a appropriate campaign, will be necessary for the peaceful unification of the Korean Peninsula.

Keyword

North Korean defectors; North Korean refugees; North Korea; Korea unification, Adaptation; Perception; Satisfaction level

MeSH Terms

Comprehension
Democratic People's Republic of Korea
Employment
Humans
Military Personnel
Republic of Korea
Self-Help Groups