In a recent phone call, South Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul requested special cooperation from his Chinese counterpart, Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Cho aims to protect North Korean defectors from forced repatriation, according to the ministry. Although the details of Cho’s comments remain undisclosed, the act of a South Korean foreign minister formally addressing the issue of North Korean defectors being forced to return with China’s foreign minister marks a significant departure from typical South Korean diplomatic practice.
North Korean defectors face dire consequences, far removed from a mere return to their homes. Numerous defectors have attested to the severe conditions they endure. The best way to stop this is to unite with the international community in condemning China’s egregious actions. Despite being a communist dictatorship, China is a permanent member of the UN Security Council and depends on global trade. Its international reputation cannot be overlooked. This has led the liberal democratic world to ‘name and shame’ China for its neglect of human rights, including the rights of North Korean defectors.
Past South Korean administrations have adopted a strategy of ‘quiet diplomacy,’ operating under the belief that antagonizing China would jeopardize necessary cooperation to facilitate the return of North Koreans to South Korea. This approach led to the forced repatriation of 500 to 600 North Koreans to North Korea in October last year. Such ‘quiet diplomacy’ has been criticized as a guise for cowardice, offering diplomatic rhetoric without substantial action, essentially tiptoeing around China.
Last month, the South Korean government made its first statement to the UN Human Rights Council, urging China to “provide adequate protection to North Korean defectors.” This statement was mindful of the widespread criticism from various sources. Minister Cho’s mention of “halting North Korea’s transfers” aligns with this stance. In solidarity with the global community, it is imperative to address this issue persistently, applying pressure on China to cease the repatriation of North Korean defectors.
