Democracy comprehension and life satisfaction among North Korean defectors: The overlooked role of ideological adaptation

This study examines how understanding South Korea’s political system is associated with social integration and life satisfaction among North Korean defectors. Unlike voluntary immigrants, the defectors transition from an authoritarian regime to a democratic society with no prior exposure to democratic institutions, making political adaptation a unique resettlement challenge. Analysis of survey data from 107 defectors reveals a significant positive relationship between comprehension of liberal democracy and satisfaction with freedom, competition, and overall well-being. Furthermore, while perceived system deficiencies negatively correlate with life satisfaction, this study suggests that structural factors such as bureaucratic hurdles and social stigma may drive this discontent. By establishing a link between political value adaptation and life satisfaction, this study underscores the importance of ideological integration for successful settlement in South Korea.