Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun reported on the 27th that China has accepted thousands of North Korean workers into its territory this year. This has raised concerns that it violates United Nations Security Council resolutions on sanctions against North Korea.
The Yomiuri Shimbun cited sources regarding North Korea-China relations, stating that about 3,000 North Korean workers entered Hunchun in Jilin Province by March this year, and approximately 500 arrived in Dandong City in Liaoning Province last month. Most of these individuals are young women, assigned to garment factories or seafood processing plants.
It is reported that negotiations for the acceptance of North Korean workers are underway not only in northeastern China but also in other regions. In this context, a source noted, "It is impossible for local Chinese governments to unilaterally accept (North Korean workers)."
The dispatch of North Korean workers is prohibited under United Nations Security Council resolutions on sanctions against North Korea. The resolution mandates all UN member states to prohibit new employment permits for North Korean nationals and to repatriate existing workers back to their home country.
Opinions have been raised that the Chinese government is targeting both the acquisition of cheap labor and the political goal of restoring North Korea-China relations. The newspaper stated, "Considering that U.S. President Donald Trump is positive about dialogue with Kim Jong Un, and taking into account the approach between North Korea and Russia, there is a possibility that China might be seeking to improve relations with North Korea."