Unification Ministry: English Term for Bukhyangmin Is "North Korean-born Citizens"

On March 5, the Ministry of Unification announced that it has decided to use the English term "North Korean-born citizens" to refer to Bukhyangmin. Following the government's change in the Korean terminology from the previous "Talbukmin" (North Korean defectors) to "Bukhyangmin," the official English expression has also been updated.

In a press release issued the same day, the Ministry explained the change. Previously, "Talbukmin" had been translated into English as "North Korean defectors," "refugees," or "escapees." The Ministry stated that these existing English terms mainly focused on "escape, defection, or protection," and the new expression is intended to remove negative connotations, promote social integration, and make it easier for foreign language speakers to understand.

The Ministry argues that the new English term, "North Korean-born citizens," clearly defines the target group as people born in North Korea. Regarding the use of the word "citizens," the Ministry emphasized that it highlights the fact that defectors are equal citizens protected by the Constitution and laws of South Korea, stating that "even if they do not reside within South Korea, their citizenship remains valid."

However, as there were objections from defector groups when the government changed the Korean term from "Talbukmin" to "Bukhyangmin," similar backlash is expected this time as well. When the government issued guidelines for the use of "Bukhyangmin" last December, the National Association of North Korean Defectors released a statement condemning the move, saying, "We express deep anger and regret over the serious damage to the dignity and identity of those concerned." Critics argue that attempting to change the term "Talbukmin," which conveys the meaning of escaping from North Korea's dictatorship, dilutes the free will of defectors.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.