Defenition:
Hanawon is a South Korean government-run facility established in 1999 that provides resettlement assistance to North Korean defectors. Hanawon’s primary objective is to help defectors from North Korea adjust to life in South Korea, both socially and economically. The transition from a closed, authoritarian regime like North Korea to the vibrant, democratic, and capitalist system in the South can be overwhelming, so Hanawon plays a vital role in easing that shift.
As an international intern at Saejowi, I had the privilege of visiting the second branch of Hanawon (for male North Korean defectors) as an international intern with Saejowi, which was a significant honor since non-Korean nationals are rarely permitted into these state facilities.
Our visit lasted two days and one night, during which the Saejowi team and several North Korean escapees who have resettled in South Korea and are part of Saejowi’s mental and physical health programs accompanied us. Located in the countryside near Chuncheon, South Korea, Hanawon surprised me with its welcoming and picturesque surroundings. The garden, buildings, and hilly landscape were idyllic, and the institution itself was modern, featuring well-equipped seminar and medical rooms. The lunch and breakfast we had there was very tasty, and my single room had a quiet, state-of-the-art air-conditioning system. The overall ambiance was reminiscent of seminar centers used for family or business retreats, which helped humanize Hanawon as a place with fundamental learning objectives for North Koreans.
On the first day, Hanawon organized a diverse program for the North Korean visitors where also us Saejowi staff members participated. My favorite activity was the DIY session, where I had the opportunity to interact with and assist some older North Korean ladies with their crafting projects. Their gratitude for the activities and support they received, despite their harrowing experiences escaping North Korea, was deeply moving. I shared my thoughts on the German unification experience, reflecting on the universal need for better integration and understanding activities to connect people’s hearts, not just on the Korean peninsula but globally.
On the second day, we began with a meditation session followed by an outdoor activity in the mountains. I found meditation to be a powerful tool for reconnecting with one's inner self and desires. It was heartwarming to share this experience and engage in personal discussions about individual aspirations with everyone, including the staff members.
Though our visit was brief, it was an invaluable experience marked by meaningful conversations that made me feel recognized and appreciated in my role as a foreigner working at Saejowi in South Korea. The return journey to Seoul was filled with joy and laughter among everyone. The shared happiness and understanding underscored the beauty of human connection. I believe Hanawon should continue hosting seminars and workshops like these to promote integration and understanding between North and South Korean nationals, as well as international individuals interested in contributing to unification efforts on the Korean peninsula.
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