North Koreans face heatstroke and robbery in the same breath
North Korean people struggling to make a living amid record heat are facing a double and triple crisis. Some collapse from heat illness while working outdoors; others run into robbers while moving at dawn or at night to avoid the heat. With no emergency medical system and public safety breaking down, their lives are at […]
North Koreans are grappling with two life-threatening crises simultaneously: scorching heatwaves and rising instances of robbery. Amidst record-breaking temperatures, some residents succumb to heatstroke while working outdoors, while others fall victim to thieves during early morning or night hours when they try to escape the heat.
The lack of an emergency medical system and deteriorating public safety only exacerbates their perilous situation. In North Pyongan province, a Daily NK source reported that locals travel between cities and rural areas to sell produce, leading to numerous collapses from the midday heat. "People who live hand to mouth have no choice but to go outside despite the heat," the source explained.
"Their livelihood is cut off the moment they stop working. But the heat has gotten so severe that it’s hard to even breathe." With no proper emergency response, those who collapse rely solely on the assistance of nearby individuals for aid. In addition to the heat crisis, robberies are surging, particularly at night, as people attempt to evade the oppressive temperatures.
As people move during nighttime hours to avoid the heat, they become targets of criminal activity, creating a dangerous cycle. The public sentiment is growing frustrated with authorities, as they are unable to provide adequate protection or medical assistance. Daily NK reports that individuals are increasingly expressing their dissatisfaction, stating, "Neither the state nor the weather is helping us."
Written by urgent.news from Daily NK's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
