While the rest of the world is focused on the nuclear test itself, Radio Free Asia reported yesterday about the future impact of the North Korean authorities' third nuclear test on the physical well-being of citizens.
The location of the recent test was Punggye-ri, Kilju in North Hamgyeong Province. Surrounded by high mountains and granite, this place was presumably chosen because there is a lower possibility of radiation leaks. However, North Korea’s safety measures are weak so how the test will impact on the local environment and citizens’ bodies is unclear.
In an RFA interview with Park Kun Ha, a defector, stated that the life span of North Korean people living near the Yongbyon nuclear power plant is much shorter than elsewhere. Many women in this region also have infertility problems. As a result, many children are born deformed.
Radiation levels in Russia’s Far East region, which is the closest region to North Korea, has shown no change after North Korea’s nuke test. However, the possible impact of the test on the environment and people needs to be investigated further.
Source: Radio Free Asia
