North Korean defector and broadcaster Kim Seo-ah has publicly detailed the intrusive physical examination process she underwent as a candidate for the country’s “Pleasure Squad,” or gippeumjo. According to Kim’s statements on her social media, the process involved high-intensity screenings conducted by male officials when she was 17 years old, a system she describes as part of a state-managed recruitment program for the regime’s elite.
The Mechanics of Recruitment and Screening
Kim Seo-ah reports that her recruitment process began in her school years, where central party officials identified students based on height and appearance. By age 17, Kim says she was frequently summoned to the Central Committee headquarters. According to her account, she was one of 10 candidates subjected to a group inspection conducted by five male judges. The screening required candidates to undress and rotate for physical assessment. Kim noted that the criteria for selection included a minimum height of 165cm and a body free of scars.
Did you know?
Defectors often refer to the Pleasure Squad as “5th Division” (5-gwa). Kim Seo-ah stated that the term “Pleasure Squad” was a label she only encountered after arriving in South Korea, contrasting with the internal terminology used in the North.
Comparison of Defector Testimonies
Kim’s account aligns with claims made by other prominent North Korean defectors. Han Song-i, another defector who operates a YouTube channel, has previously appeared alongside Kim to discuss the managed nature of these selections. Han characterized the process as occurring within a closed society where information is restricted, leading some to perceive selection as a form of “being chosen” rather than a violation of human rights.
Separately, defector Park Yeon-mi has alleged that the system dates back to the era of Kim Jong-il and continues under Kim Jong-un. According to Park, the regime recruits approximately 25 women annually, with selections based on loyalty and physical attributes. Park alleges the squad is divided into three distinct groups: those tasked with massage, performance, and sexual service. The North Korean government has never officially acknowledged the existence of the gippeumjo.
The Strategic Impact of Selection and Rejection
For candidates, the prospect of selection carries significant professional and social implications. Kim Seo-ah described the experience as a period of intense anxiety, noting that refusal was effectively impossible due to the fear of being expelled from Pyongyang. However, Kim stated that she was ultimately disqualified during her assessment. She credits this rejection as a turning point that eventually allowed her to pursue her defection from the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the “Pleasure Squad” in North Korea?
It is a reported, state-run group of women allegedly recruited to provide entertainment or services to North Korean leadership. The government does not officially recognize the unit. - Are there specific physical requirements for candidates?
According to testimonies from defectors like Kim Seo-ah, candidates are screened for height (typically 165cm or taller) and the absence of scars or physical blemishes. - Can candidates refuse the selection process?
Defectors claim that refusal is extremely difficult, with potential repercussions including expulsion from Pyongyang or other punitive measures for those who decline the state’s mandate.
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