China Deports 'Large Number' of North Koreans, Seoul Reports

The South Korean unification ministry has confirmed that a "large number" of North Koreans have been repatriated from China, in line with claims made by rights groups. Many North Koreans escape repression and poverty by crossing the border into China, where they face the risk of arrest and deportation. Activists warn that those who are forced to return home could face severe punishment, including death sentences. South Korea has expressed its regret over the situation and emphasized that North Korean defectors should not be forcibly repatriated against their will. China, North Korea's strongest ally and trading partner, has not addressed the specific deportation claims.