North Korean Defector Steals Bus, Attempts to Flee South Korea to Return North

Life for North Korean defectors in South Korea can be incredibly challenging. The man, in his 30s, defected over a decade ago, but like many others, struggled to integrate into his new environment. His attempt to return to North Korea on October 1, 2024, reflects the immense pressure and difficulties many defectors endure after fleeing the oppressive regime of the North.

The Attempt to Cross the Tongil Bridge

At approximately 1 a.m., the defector stole a village bus parked in a garage in Munsan-eup, Paju, where the key had been left inside. He drove the bus toward the Tongil (Unification) Bridge, a restricted area near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas.

The man ignored warnings from military guards stationed at the bridge and continued driving until crashing into a barricade. According to the Paju Police Station, he was arrested shortly after at around 1:30 a.m.

Photo of Tongil Bridge in Paju by Yonhap (2021)

No Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

Police confirmed that the defector was neither intoxicated nor under the influence of drugs during the incident. During interrogation, he told police that he had wanted to return to North Korea due to the difficulties he faced in adapting to life in the South, as reported by Maeil Business Newspaper.

What’s Next for the Defector?

Now in custody, the defector faces charges of theft, with authorities investigating the full details of his case, including his life since defecting. Police are also considering applying charges under South Korea’s National Security Law, given his stated intent to return to North Korea.

The law is used in cases where individuals express intent to align with or support North Korea.

Challenges Faced by North Korean Defectors

South Korea is home to more than 34,000 North Korean defectors, many of whom face significant challenges adjusting to their new lives. While defectors leave the North to escape political persecution and poverty, the transition to South Korea’s fast-paced, competitive society is not easy.

Discrimination, joblessness, and isolation often plague defectors, leading to feelings of disillusionment.

This man’s desperate attempt to return to North Korea—though extreme—shows the ongoing struggles that many North Korean escapees face in South Korea. Hence, it is important to address these challenges, provide proper support, and help defectors adjust to prevent more incidents like this.