Introduction: Despite the emphasis on more systematic and high-quality health care services in the maternal period, a high maternal mortality rate in developing countries is still reported. North Korea, one of the closed countries in the world, is no exception. This study aimed to explore the maternal health experiences in North Korea.
Methodology: Qualitative content analysis suggested by Graneheim and Lundman was used to analyze the data of 10 female North Korean defectors.
Results: Three categories were derived: pregnancy without self-determination rights, a huge gap between the policies on maternal protection and the reality, and discriminatory childbirth and postpartum care. The theme was "perilous existence of maternal health."
Discussion: We highlighted the need for awareness of maternity protection led by health care professionals such as nurses to guarantee Universal Health Coverage as a human right for North Korean women.
Keywords: North Korea; clinical areas; health equity; maternal health; perinatal care; vulnerable populations; women’s health.