The Homeless Population in North Korea: Poverty and Social Realities

North Korea, a country often shrouded in mystery and intrigue, presents a complex picture of social conditions. The reports and rumors surrounding the homeless population here are tainted with uncertainty, largely due to the stringent control of the regime and limited access to information. While it is hard to give an exact figure of the number of homeless people in North Korea, various indicators suggest that a significant portion of the population struggles with poverty and destitution.

Understanding Homelessness in North Korea

One common misconception is that homelessness does not exist in North Korea due to the socialist system where the government allocates homes to every citizen. However, the reality is more nuanced. While it is true that the government provides housing, the quality and adequacy of this housing can be questionable, particularly in the face of pervasive poverty and the challenges of the broader socio-economic environment.

Architectures of Poverty

Photos of some of these 'housing places' reveal conditions that are reminiscent of medieval serfdom. These dwellings often share spaces with livestock, reflecting a stark contrast to modern standards of living. The living conditions are so poor that they are comparable to the hovels of the Dark Ages, where people and animals resided in the same cramped spaces.

Evidence of Homelessness

Despite the government's claim of providing homes, anecdotal evidence and testimonies from documentaries suggest that North Korea does indeed have a significant homeless population. Hunger, a persistent issue in the country, has pushed some children to resort to scavenging in garbage for food. Furthermore, there have been reports of North Koreans being found dead on boats that attempt to sail to Japan, a journey fraught with danger and desperation.

The Term 'Kkotgeoji'

It is worth noting that in North Korea, the term 'Kkotgeoji' (literally meaning 'flower beggar') is used to describe a specific demographic. Unlike the general concept of homelessness, Kkotgeoji refers to individuals who flee their homes due to extreme financial hardship, rather than a complete lack of a residential dwelling. However, within the broader context of poverty, these individuals are certainly part of the homeless population.

The Broader Context

While the government may provide homes in theory, the reality suggests that a portion of the population encounters issues related to homelessness and poverty. This is situational and may vary significantly across different regions and time periods. External reports often perpetuate scarcity and inadequacies, and it is crucial to understand these complexities.

Conclusion and Further Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into this issue, a recent article titled 'Why North Korean regime could be brought down by soap operas' offers unique insights into the psychological and social dynamics of North Korean society. This and other resources can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by North Koreans, including those who are homeless or living in poverty.

Keyword Tags

Homelessness in North Korea, Poverty, Kim regime