N. Korean farmer takes life after flood destroys crops
In a tragic incident in North Korea’s North Hamgyong province, a woman in her 50s took her own life after her farmland was severely damaged by recent heavy rains. According to a Daily NK source, the woman from Hoeryong consumed two bottles of pesticide on Aug. 3, despairing over the destruction of crops she had cultivated using high-interest loans. The source reported that the woman had expanded her farmland this year, hoping for a better harvest. Her death has sparked discussions among local residents about the dire economic situation and lack of support for farmers affected by natural disasters. The incident highlights the growing desperation among North Koreans facing worsening living conditions and fears of another poor harvest year.
Read the original article by Lee Chae Un here.
N. Korea responds to deaths due to heatwave
North Hamgyong province has issued emergency guidelines to combat a severe heatwave after about 20 heat-related collapses or deaths were reported in Chongjin alone. The provincial people’s committee held an urgent meeting Aug. 3 and distributed directives advising residents, especially the elderly and children, to avoid outdoor activities during midday hours until mid-August. Officials recommend staying indoors during peak temperatures, maintaining proper hydration and consuming salt. Local authorities are emphasizing strict adherence to these measures to minimize casualties.
Read the original article by Jeong Seo-yeong here.
Soldiers mobilized for flood recovery work in Hyesan
Soldiers from North Korea’s 10th Corps, stationed in Hyesan, Yanggang province, have been mobilized for flood damage repair since Aug. 1. The troops are working from morning to evening on various tasks, including repairing military positions, roads and railways damaged by recent heavy rains. Local residents, who previously viewed the soldiers negatively due to thefts, are now expressing sympathy for the undernourished troops working in the heat. The soldiers’ efforts in difficult conditions have softened some attitudes, with people reportedly feeling a mix of gratitude and pity for the young conscripts.
Read the original article by Lee Chae Un here.
Military builders concerned about shoddy construction in Hwasong
Soldiers involved in the construction of 10,000 homes in Pyongyang’s Hwasong district are expressing concerns about the quality of work due to rushed construction. Military builders are worried about safety issues arising from the use of substandard materials and shortcuts in the construction process.
A source reported that rusty rebar and weakened concrete are being used in the project, which began in February. Soldiers have been overheard saying they wouldn’t want to live in these apartments. Despite these concerns, North Korean state media continues to praise the rapid progress of the construction, claiming that some units completed framework construction 40 days ahead of schedule. Daily NK analysis of satellite imagery suggests night work is being conducted to accelerate the project.
Read the original article by Han Jae-deok here.
Military and civilian forces mobilized in flood recovery efforts in N. Hamgyong province
North Hamgyong province mobilized military and civilian forces to address severe flooding damage. The Ninth Corps, civil defense forces, and Worker-Peasant Red Guards were deployed from Aug. 2-5 to repair blocked sewers and restore water supplies in several cities and counties.
The provincial authorities are urging local residents to actively participate in restoration efforts, invoking Kim Jong Un’s recent visit to flood-damaged areas. However, one resident of Hoeryong was beaten and detained by security officers after criticizing the government’s response. The province continues to call for unity in quickly restoring flood-damaged areas to their original state.
Read the original article by Jeong Seo-yeong here.
Economic divide shapes students’ summer vacations
North Korean students’ summer vacation experiences are sharply divided by family economic status. Students from wealthy families in Hyesan are receiving expensive private tutoring, costing up to RMB 450 (worth about 165 kilograms of rice) monthly for three subjects.
Meanwhile, students from poorer families can only complete assigned homework, unable to afford extra classes. A source said that this year’s extended vacation is likely to widen the educational gap. Economically disadvantaged students are limited to reviewing past material, while those receiving tutoring can study ahead. The situation reflects growing educational disparities in North Korea, with the source stating, “It’s becoming an era where students’ abilities differ based on their family’s economic status.”
Read the original article by Lee Chae Un here.
