Summary

Kim Jong-un has introduced stricter laws in North Korea, sending both spouses in divorcing couples to labor camps for up to six months, with women often receiving longer sentences.

The regime views divorce as anti-socialist. Previously, only the spouse who initiated the divorce was punished.

Rising divorce rates since COVID-19 lockdowns have persisted despite public humiliation and threats of expulsion from the Korean Workers’ Party.

Reports indicate labor camps house dozens of divorcees, mostly in their late 30s, under harsh conditions.