Kotjebi, kotchebi, or ggotjebi[1] (Korean: 꽃제비; RR: kkotjebi; MR: kkotchebi; lit. flowering swallows) is a Korean term for North Korean homeless people, given because of the kotjebi's constant search for food and shelter.[2] The term was originally used in reference to homeless children.[3] The homeless elderly are known by the related term noin kotjebi.
The kotjebi are not officially recognized in North Korea, with any mention of the term being prohibited in state publications and documents.[4]