The number of sexual assaults against female students in North Korea is rapidly increasing, according to a report released by Open Radio for North Korea, a watchdog organization for the isolated nation.
According to the report which was released on June 15, the rapid increase correlates with the rise in the number of families breaking up due to economic difficulties. The number of housewives leaving home has increased, Open Radio said, leading to an increasing number of single men with "nothing to do."
Most sexual assault cases happen near schools, the report said. Sexual offenders can sneak up on unaware women, either dragging them away to secluded areas or tempting them with money and presents and luring them to their homes.
Although sexual assault is a recognized problem in North Korea, the Pyongyang regime has done little to solve the problem, and said “The schools are at fault for not properly managing their students”.
The victims also face pressure to keep the crime to themselves, in fear of both retribution and public opinion.
In Kilju Province in northeastern North Korea, there have been over 90 disappearances of women in the past few years alone, the broadcaster said, quoting an unnamed source in the North.
One victim of sexual assault spent over a month in a hospital after an attack. She has yet to fully recover, the source said.