A Study on Settlement for North Korean Refugee in South Korean Society

Purpose This study attempts to examine the effects of social maladjustment and social loneliness on suicidal behavior among North Korean refugee women in South Korea, and to verify the effects of social welfare programs designed to prevent suicidal behavior among these population. Methods The self-reported survey questionnaires were performed among 156 North Korean refugee women. Frequency analysis and multiple regression analysis were used to identify the effects of social maladjustment and loneliness on suicidal behavior and the effectiveness of social welfare program. Results Results showed that 45.5% of women had suicidal attempts in the past year. After controlling for marital status, level of depression, age, and duration of stay in South Korea, social maladjustment were not associated with suicidal behavior. However, social maladjustment and suicidal behavior had statistically significant relationship via social loneliness as a full mediator variable. Conclusion Failure in social maladjustment is a significant risk factor of suicidal attempt through social loneliness as a mediator. Thus, the study suggests for developing appropriate social network programs and family support program in order to integrate them into Korean society.