In a covert operation, China has secretly repatriated nearly 600 North Koreans that were held in Chinese custody. This information comes from North Korean human rights organizations based in South Korea, and local sources within China.
These people were apprehended in China while attempting to escape to South Korea during the coronavirus pandemic. They had been detained in prisons located within the Chinese provinces of Jilin and Liaoning.
China carried out this large-scale repatriation operation under wraps through five customs centers on the North Korea-China border. North Korean human rights organizations have noted that while China has previously repatriated small groups of North Koreans following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions—this marks the first instance where such a large group has been returned at once.
The authorities in North Korea are known for their vigilance against external information reaching its citizens through defectors. Given these people have attempted escape—a perceived betrayal of their regime—their expected punishment could be severe.
Article 33 of the UN Refugee Convention stipulates that no state should expel or return a refugee where their life or freedom would be threatened.
In addition, Article 3 of the Convention Against Torture—which was acceded by China back in 1988—establishes non-refoulement; stating no individual should be expelled or extradited if they face danger due to potential torture.
It seems that China’s recent actions contradict these international agreements.