© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

N. Korean Refugees to the South Find Life Hard

During the Cold War, few North Koreans defected to South Korea. But conditions in North Korea hundreds of North Koreans to risk fleeing to China and eventually South Korea. Many are finding life in the capitalist South far more difficult than expected. NPR's Eric Weiner reports.

Copyright 2002 NPR

Eric Weiner
Eric Weiner is a national correspondent for NPR.org. Based in Washington, DC, he writes news and analysis for NPR's website.
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.