The Factors that are Associated with Re-Victimization Experience of North Korean Refugees

• In Event: Victimization and Support: Diverse Perspectives and Interventions

Abstract

Due to the vulnerability that North Korean (NK) people faced, NK refugees are more likely to be attractive targets of various types of crimes including human trafficking and interpersonal violence from potential offenders. However, little is known about factors that are related to the re-victimization of NK refugees. This study examined the prevalence of victimized experience of NK refugees in both North Korea and South Korea considering the critical factors that might impact on the revictimization. The current study utilized the data of “Survey on Human Right Violation and Trauma toward North Korean Refugees in 2017 (KOSSDA data number A1-2017-00)” that was conducted by the National Human Right Commission of the Republic of Korea. 139 NK refuges who consist of approximately 46.3% of total participants had experienced interpersonal crime victimization in North Korea. Only 8 NK refugees (2.8%) had experienced the interpersonal violence in South Korea after they adjust to South Korean society. Further policy implication will be discussed.

Author

• YOUNOH CHO, DONGGUK UNIVERSITY