Twenty-four of 36 North Korean defectors staying in Thailand will soon go to the U.S.

Radio Free Asia reported that the Thai government has given permission to the 24 escapees who want to settle in the U.S.

The U.S. government-funded radio quoted an aid worker for the defectors as saying the North Koreans will be able to head for the U.S. soon.

Radio Free Asia added, however, as Bangkok grows reluctant to accept North Korean defectors, escapees will find it difficult to go to a third country via Thailand. As a result many increasingly choose neighboring Myanmar as a stop for freedom.