Purpose: This study aimed to comprehensively review the experiences of North Korean defector nursing students in nursing education in South Korea through a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Methods: The meta-ethnography of Noblit and Hare was used. The findings of five qualitative studies were synthesized to describe North Korean defector nursing student experiences in nursing education in South Korea. Results: Four themes were synthesized from individual qualitative studies: Hiding one’s identity and maintaining only passive interpersonal relationships due to prejudices against North Korean defectors and language differences; Struggling with keeping up in nursing classes due to unfamiliar education practices, lack of understanding of the culture, and an academic gap with South Korean nursing students; Reflecting on oneself and establishing awareness about nursing through nursing education in South Korea; and Making progress toward attaining the dream of becoming a nurse with a sense of accomplishment and pride. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, educational support policy is needed to help North Korean defector nursing students complete their nursing education in South Korea so as to play a successful role as nursing leaders after unification.