This paper explores the experiences of North Korean defectors, focusing on their motivations for escape, the challenges of their journeys, and their integration into new societies, particularly in South Korea. While drawing on policy analyses and academic sources, the paper examines the interplay of political oppression, economic hardship, and social isolation as drivers of defection. It highlights the perilous escape routes, often involving human trafficking and precarious conditions in transit countries like China, where defectors face deportation risks. The study also investigates the systemic barriers and social stigma that defectors encounter during resettlement, including difficulties with cultural assimilation, employment, and mental health. By analyzing the policies of receiving nations and the international community, the paper underscores the critical need for comprehensive support systems tailored to defectors’ unique experiences. The findings aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of North Korean defectors and inform policies that enhance their protection and successful integration into host societies.