Outsiders: Memories of Migration to and from North Korea

Markus Bell's book explores the hidden histories of people who traveled from Japan to North Korea, revealing the driving forces that propelled them to risk it all in Kim Il-Sungs "Workers Paradise" and to escape back to Japan half a century later.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 14 July 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

In his captivating book, Markus Bell delves into the enigmatic stories of the individuals who embarked on a remarkable journey from Japan to the enigmatic state of North Korea. Through vivid ethnographic insights and engaging interviews with North Korean escapees, Outsiders: Memories of Migration to and from North Korea unveils the compelling forces that propelled thousands of ordinary people to venture into Kim Il-Sung's envisioned "Workers Paradise," only to find themselves returning to Japan after half a century.

The book offers a profound exploration of the lives and experiences of these migrants, shedding light on the complexities and hardships they faced during their time in North Korea. Bell's meticulous research and storytelling skills bring the reader into the heart of this hidden world, providing a nuanced and empathetic perspective on the lives of those who sought a better life in North Korea.

One of the key themes of the book is the allure of North Korea's propaganda and the false promises it made to its citizens. Bell highlights how North Korea's government manipulated information and controlled the narrative, creating a sense of false hope and desperation among its people. This manipulation led many to believe that they would find a better life in North Korea, only to discover that the reality was far different from what they had been led to believe.

The book also delves into the personal stories of the migrants, exploring their motivations for leaving Japan and their experiences in North Korea. Some were driven by political ideologies, seeking to escape the oppression and poverty they faced in their home country. Others were drawn by the promise of a better job and a higher standard of living, only to find themselves trapped in a system that was exploitative and abusive.

Despite the hardships and challenges they faced, many of the migrants managed to escape North Korea and return to Japan. Bell's interviews with these escapees provide a firsthand account of their experiences, including the struggles they faced during their escape and the long-term effects of their time in North Korea. The book also sheds light on the Japanese government's response to the migration of its citizens to North Korea, including its policies of containment and surveillance.

Outsiders: Memories of Migration to and from North Korea is a powerful and thought-provoking book that offers a unique perspective on the complex relationship between Japan, North Korea, and the individuals who were caught in the middle. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history, politics, and human rights of this region, and the ongoing challenges faced by those who seek to escape the grip of totalitarianism.

ISBN-13: 9781800739130