North Korean soldiers resort to theft amid dire food shortages

Increase in burglaries near North Korean military bases. According to Daily NK, soldiers are responsible for a series of thefts. The portal reports that the military personnel have nothing to eat, so they are looting. "Now, with burglars terrorizing the neighbourhood, people's suffering is indescribable," says a source from the service.

The situation in the country ruled by Kim Jong Un is dire. There is a food shortage that even affects soldiers, driving them to break into homes for food. Recently, burglaries, particularly in Hyesan, have intensified.

Soldiers have been committing more burglaries against Hyesan citizens lately. These incidents are worsening conditions for already struggling people – said a source from the region, cited by Daily NK.

One of the most dramatic events occurred on September 20, when in one night, ten families in a neighbourhood in the Kangan district fell victim to burglars. Not only food was stolen, but also clothing and kitchenware.

Life is tough enough that people wake up groaning. Now, with burglars terrorizing the neighborhood, people’s suffering is indescribable - reports a source.

Witnesses indicate that the burglars were dressed in military uniforms and carried guns, intensifying anger towards the soldiers. The situation has become so serious that in places where people keep livestock, thefts of livestock have occurred. For families dependent on animal husbandry, such thefts mean losing their source of income.

For families dependent on livestock, this kind of theft abruptly deprives them of their livelihood – added a source.

While similar incidents occurred during the famine in North Korea in the 1990s and early 2000s, these events have significantly decreased in recent years. Unfortunately, the current situation suggests a return of these troubling practices, causing increasing fear and concern among citizens.

Despite these dramatic events, some residents try to show compassion for the young soldiers, who are also in a difficult situation. Military service in North Korea lasts about ten years – six times longer than the mandatory service in South Korea, which is 18 months. Moreover, North Korean soldiers do not receive pay and often have to bribe their superiors.

If the government would just keep soldiers from going hungry during their service, they wouldn’t have any reason to steal. It’s frustrating that our country can’t even manage that – said a source.

The informants of Daily NK, on whom this information is based, operate in North Korea, China, and other locations, maintaining their anonymity for safety reasons.