Unusual Boat Defection: North Korean Suspects Intercepted in South Korean Waters
Four North Koreans were found in a small wooden boat in South Korean waters, likely attempting to defect to the South. Defecting by sea is uncommon and more dangerous than the land route through China that most North Korean defectors take. The South Korean coast guard discovered the boat after a report by a fishing boat, and the four individuals identified themselves as North Koreans. South Korea's military secured their custody, suspecting them of defection. If confirmed, this would be the second case of North Koreans fleeing to the South by sea this year.