UN General Assembly Condemns North Korea's Human Rights Abuses, South Korea Co-Sponsors Resolution

UN General Assembly Adopts Resolution on DPRK Human Rights

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on Thursday, December 18, 2025, condemning the extensive human rights violations in North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The resolution specifically highlighted the regime's systematic policy of abductions, which includes Japanese and other foreign nationals, and called for their immediate return. This marks the 21st consecutive year that the General Assembly has endorsed a similar resolution addressing the human rights situation in North Korea.

Details of the Condemnation and Calls for Accountability

The resolution, submitted by the European Union and co-sponsored by numerous countries including Japan and South Korea, was adopted by consensus. It expresses deep concern over the grave human rights situation, the pervasive culture of impunity, and the lack of accountability for violations and abuses within the DPRK. The document denounces a range of abuses, including public executions, arbitrary detentions, the death penalty for political and religious reasons, torture, and extensive use of forced labor. It also calls for Pyongyang to repeal practices and laws that suppress freedom of thought, expression, and religion.

Furthermore, the resolution encourages the UN Security Council to continue its consideration of the conclusions and recommendations from the Commission of Inquiry (CoI). This includes exploring appropriate actions to ensure accountability, such as potential referral to the International Criminal Court and the consideration of further targeted sanctions against those deemed most responsible for human rights violations that may constitute crimes against humanity.

South Korea's Role and International Reactions

South Korea's co-sponsorship of the resolution is notable, as it signifies a renewed engagement on the issue after a period of not co-sponsoring such resolutions. The resolution was co-sponsored by 61 countries in total, reflecting broad international concern. While the resolution is non-binding under international law, it carries significant weight as a reflection of the international community's unified demand for human rights improvements in North Korea.

As anticipated, Pyongyang vehemently rejected the resolution. North Korean Ambassador to the UN, Kim Song, condemned it as a 'politically motivated provocation' aimed at violating the dignity and sovereignty of the DPRK. He asserted that there have never been such human rights violations in North Korea, dismissing the resolution as a product of 'plot and fabrication.' Countries like Russia and China indicated they would not support the resolution following its adoption.

Ongoing International Concern

The adoption of this resolution underscores the persistent international concern regarding the human rights situation in North Korea. The international community continues to urge the DPRK government to uphold its human rights obligations and allow greater access for humanitarian organizations and international personnel.