Kotjebi

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] The Kotjebi are a stateless generation, formed through famine and economic crisis, facing extreme poverty and no human rights guarantees. This group faces unique challenges in their daily lives, scavenging for food and working for low wages. (McPhee, Shaun)

  1. ^ Kim, Hyung-Jin (5 Jun 2013). "Activist: Smiling NKorean defectors told of misery". Yahoo!. Associated Press. Archived from the original on 2013-06-05. Retrieved 2013-06-05.
  2. ^ Behnke, Alison (September 2007). Kim Jong Il's North Korea. ISBN 9780822572824. Retrieved 2008-08-12.
  3. ^ "Every major N. Korean provincial city sees a rise in homeless". Daily NK. 15 December 2022. Retrieved 2022-12-15.
  4. ^ "The Old Generation Calls North Korea "the Great Poverty Country"". Daily NK. 27 May 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-11.