N. Korean farmer takes life after flood destroys crops
In a tragic incident in North Korea’s North Hamgyong province, a woman in her 50s took her own life after her farmland was severely damaged by recent heavy rains. According to a Daily NK source, the woman from Hoeryong consumed two bottles of pesticide on Aug. 3, despairing over the destruction of crops she had cultivated using high-interest loans. The source reported that the woman had expanded her farmland this year, hoping for a better harvest. Her death has sparked discussions among local residents about the dire economic situation and lack of support for farmers affected by natural disasters. The incident highlights the growing desperation among North Koreans facing worsening living conditions and fears of another poor harvest year.
Read the original article by Lee Chae Un here.
N. Korea responds to deaths due to heatwave
North Hamgyong province has issued emergency guidelines to combat a severe heatwave after about 20 heat-related collapses or deaths were reported in Chongjin alone. The provincial people’s committee held an urgent meeting Aug. 3 and distributed directives advising residents, especially the elderly and children, to avoid outdoor activities during midday hours until mid-August. Officials recommend staying indoors during peak temperatures, maintaining proper hydration and consuming salt. Local authorities are emphasizing strict adherence to these measures to minimize casualties.
Read the original article by Jeong Seo-yeong here.
Soldiers mobilized for flood recovery work in Hyesan
Soldiers from North Korea’s 10th Corps, stationed in Hyesan, Yanggang province, have been mobilized for flood damage repair since Aug. 1. The troops are working from morning to evening on various tasks, including repairing military positions, roads and railways damaged by recent heavy rains. Local residents, who previously viewed the soldiers negatively due to thefts, are now expressing sympathy for the undernourished troops working in the heat. The soldiers’ efforts in difficult conditions have softened some attitudes, with people reportedly feeling a mix of gratitude and pity for the young conscripts.
Read the original article by Lee Chae Un here.
Military builders concerned about shoddy construction in Hwasong
Soldiers involved in the construction of 10,000 homes in Pyongyang’s Hwasong district are expressing concerns about the quality of work due to rushed construction. Military builders are worried about safety issues arising from the use of substandard materials and shortcuts in the construction process.
A source reported that rusty rebar and weakened concrete are being used in the project, which began in February. Soldiers have been overheard saying they wouldn’t want to live in these apartments. Despite these concerns, North Korean state media continues to praise the rapid progress of the construction, claiming that some units completed framework construction 40 days ahead of schedule. Daily NK analysis of satellite imagery suggests night work is being conducted to accelerate the project.
