A new report from the Korea Institute for National Unification (KINU) revealed that North Korea continues to operate political prison camps, detaining up to 65,000 people under severe conditions. The findings highlight the country’s ongoing human rights crisis and the government’s strict control over dissent.
Furthermore, the report identified four active facilities—Camps 14, 16, 18, and 25—located in South Phyongan and North Hamgyong provinces. KINU based its findings on satellite imagery and testimonies from North Korean defectors. The data updates a 2013 study, offering a rare look inside one of the world’s most secretive prison systems.
In addition, Camp 14, in Kaechon, reportedly expanded after the 2013 execution of Jang Song-thaek, the uncle of Kim Jong-un. Authorities transferred many of Jang’s followers to this site. Meanwhile, Camp 18 relocated from Pukchang County to Kaechon in 2006, consolidating two of the country’s largest detention centers.
Moreover, Camp 16, near the Punggye-ri nuclear testing area, has drawn attention from outside observers. Analysts believe that prisoners there may perform forced labor linked to nuclear-related projects. Similarly, Camp 25, located in Chongjin, differs in structure and appearance, resembling a secured town that can hold roughly 5,800 detainees.
The report estimated that political prison camps currently detain between 53,000 and 65,000 people, down from 80,000 to 120,000 a decade ago. However, KINU clarified that this decrease reflects the closure of Camp 15—known for extreme brutality—rather than any improvement in human rights.
Additionally, North Korean authorities continue to imprison citizens accused of opposing the government, violating party doctrine, or practicing religion. Punishment includes years of forced labor, limited food, and harsh living conditions.
International observers expressed alarm over the findings. Human rights advocates argue that the continued use of political prison camps underscores Pyongyang’s disregard for international norms.
Notably, North Korea recently acknowledged the existence of some facilities for the first time. During a United Nations review in Geneva, officials indirectly admitted to their operation, marking a shift from years of denial.
Analysts say the acknowledgment could open limited dialogue but doubt it signals reform. They emphasize that genuine change requires transparency and external monitoring—steps the regime has long resisted.
Consequently, the new findings renew pressure on global leaders to address human rights abuses in North Korea. As KINU continues to collect evidence, the world watches closely for signs of progress—or further repression.
