North Korean escapees who lived near the Punggye-ri nuclear test site have reported unexplained body aches and mysterious illnesses, including respiratory conditions and tuberculosis. The escapees, now in South Korea, believe that these health issues are a result of radiation exposure from the nuclear tests conducted by North Korea between 2006 and 2017. One escapee lost her child to a respiratory condition that appeared to be caused by radiation exposure, while another believes she was exposed to radiation through drinking water. Radiation testing has been conducted on escapees, with some showing high levels of exposure. The North Korean authorities have been accused of neglecting the health risks to residents living near the test site.
Thu, 06 Jul 2023 17:16:11 GMT | Radio Free Asia