For most defectors the decision to leave North Korea is never an easy one, and there are major difficulties in addressing the refugee crisis. Those crossing into China risk arrest and deportation, and the safety of those left behind is often in question. The status of these refugees is an international issue, and they face a challenge of accessing support and services once they reach safety. While many settle in South Korea there is now a global North Korean diaspora, shaping the global policy debate towards North Korea. All of this could face imminent change with evolving international relations. SPEAKERS: Hyeonseo Lee North Korean refugee, Author The Girl with Seven Names Dr Danielle Chubb Senior Lecturer in International Relations, Deakin University Dr Jay Song Senior Lecturer in Korean Studies, University of Melbourne Dr Rebecca Strating (Chair) Lecturer in Politics, La Trobe University A La Trobe Asia event in partnership with the 2018 Bendigo Writers Festival. Held at the State Library of Victoria on 8th August, 2018.