There are a number of factors that have made it increasingly difficult for North Koreans to defect. For one, the North Korean regime is trying to clamp down on defections. In August 2006, it executed three North Korean soldiers for taking bribes and allowing North Koreans to defetct to China.

In addition, the regime is handing out harsher punishments for border-crossers. Traditionally, a repatriated refugee could hope to be released after spending three to six months in labor re-education facilities. Human Rights Watch reported a policy change in the summer of 2004, however. Refugees are now being punished with longer and harsher sentences.

A final challenge for would-be defectors is that Chinese villagers are becoming increasingly hesitant to help North Korean refugees. In the past many people would gladly open up their homes for a night and feed refugees, but this is no longer the case. One reason is that the Chinese government issued an edict stating that it would fine and potentially arrest anyone guilty of feeding or housing a refugee. A sign in the border region posted in Chinese reads, "It is forbidden to financially help, harbor, or aid in the settlement of people from the neighboring country who have crossed the border illegally."

A second reason is the increasing number of cases where refugees assault and steal from Chinese people (especially the elderly). If you visit some Chinese border villages, you will see signs warning people against helping North Korean refugees...

Thanks Mike. A lot to think about. Christians know they must preach the Gospel illegally. Would you break the law and risk arrest by taking a refugee out to a restaurant? What does our theology teach about that? And would you still want to give to someone who tried to steal from you?