The purpose of this study is to acquire an in-depth understanding regarding the experiences of North Korean defectors' young children during the escape journeys preceding their arrival in South Korea. The participants of this study include 10 young children and 6 mothers from North Korean defecting families, one kindergarten teacher, and one activist from a non-government North Korean defector aid organization. Qualitative data was collected via interviews and participant observations. The study results are as follows: 1) Though the children experienced separation from some of their family members, they were able to interact with new peer groups and people and groups of an older age, and form new relationships with them. 2) The young the children's health was greatly deteriorated by the time of their arrival. 3) While the children experienced mental stress and anxiety during their respective escape journeys, the entire experience did help them to develop a certain mental toughness.
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