Around 250 North Korean defectors find their way to Hanawon, their “second home”

Hanawon holds a homecoming event for 2023 (November 18)

On November 18, Hanawon* of the Ministry of Unification held its second homecoming event for North Korean defectors.

The event is designed to bring together North Korean defectors who have completed the Anseong Hanawon program, along with their families, to share memories and experiences.

* Hanawon (Settlement Support Center for North Korean Refugees): Located in Anseong, Gyeonggi-do (for adult females, infants, and adolescents) and Hwacheon, Gangwon-do (for adult males), Hanawon is a place where North Korean refugees arriving in South Korea receive social adaptation education before taking their first steps into society.

The event featured various programs such as gatherings by class or hometown, vocational trainings, and inter-Korean performances.

Participants spent an enjoyable time tasting North Korean food and taking photos with their friends, peers, and families.

Unification Vice Minister Moon Seoung-hyun attended the event and said, “We will continue to provide support for the successful settlement of North Korean refugees.”
In this regard, Hanawon will lower the threshold so that graduates can feel like Hanawon is a second home and visit. Moreover, Hanawon will continue its efforts in supporting North Korean defectors to live as members of South Korean society by offering various programs, including “alumni reunions by graduating class” and “advanced vocational training courses.”