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This site has been created by the UK charity Release International to raise the profile of the plight of North Korean refugees in China. Through our international network of missions, Release International serves persecuted Christians in 30 countries around the world by supporting pastors and Christian prisoners, and their families; supplying Christian literature and Bibles; and working for justice.
image arrow left 'A journey of Olympic proportions' image arrow right

Every year thousands of North Koreans flee the repressive regime of Kim Jong Il, crossing into China, and then literally ‘run for their life’ to make the dangerous journey along the so-called ‘underground railroad’ to find refuge in a neighbouring third country. This site tells their story - and shows how you can help.
Copyright © Release International 2008 Website design by Webs that Work
Kim Jong II has ruled North Korea since 1994, following the death of his father Kim II Sung, who built a personality cult around himself as ‘the Great Leader’. N Korea is one of the world’s most repressive societies, with millions facing poverty, starvation and a total lack of personal freedom. Click on the circle to watch a video about North Korean farmer Chul (30s). Haengyong labour camp is one of dozens set up to house the estimated 100,000 political prisoners and their families, including Christians. The few who have escaped describe desperate conditions, severe mistreatment of prisoners, and frequent summary executions. The Chinese government does not recognise the N Koreans as refugees, but forcibly repatriates around 4,000 a year to North Korea, where they face imprisonment, torture and even summary execution. This violates the 1951 UN Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, which China has signed. Tim Peters of Helping Hands Korea explains why thousands flee from North Korea each year. Click on the circle to watch video (2 mins).