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The Summit Experience
POSTED July 8, 2014
Summit brought people together from all over the globe to work on one of the greatest issues facing humanity today. Through sessions, labs, and activities, participants had the opportunity to share stories and ideas with each other and their North Korean peers.
Check out their experiences below:
Yeonmi mingling with a Summit participant.
“It was so amazing hearing about the difference that has been made by North Korean millennials, including Yeonmi Park who escaped North Korea and crossed the Gobi Desert to freedom. There is such an incredible strength in these amazing people so don’t think that something can’t be done because of age. She did all of that while only being 1 year older than me!” – Phil, New York
“I had read an article about his [Seongmin] life story before attending the Summit and it was thrilling to put a face to the name I had heard so much about.” – Rebecca, Arizona
“One thing that really did stick out was having the opportunity to meet the North Koreans we had all only seen in YouTube videos or read about through interviews. It’s one thing to read and research for hours on what the people went through, but it’s another to hear it straight from their own lips. To see their facial expressions, to watch them laugh and smile and cry makes you feel a stronger connection to their stories. Being able to shake their hands, give them a hug, and talk to them like we were long lost friends, that’s an experience I will never forget.” – Shalini, New Jersey
“I simply loved being surrounded by people who share the same heart for NK, and being able to meet the defectors who were walking testaments of the power of LiNK.” – Shilla, California
“Really, the whole summit was wonderful. From hearing the stories of the North Koreans and to see the passion of the staff, volunteers, and participants. I feel lucky to be part of this global movement.” – Kevin, Texas
Shin Dong-hyuk and Summit participants gather together for a photo.
“Speaking for all of us I can certainly say now, more than ever, we are driven to accelerate change from the bottom up in North Korea…Liberty in North Korea’s Summit was the single most inspiring and impactful weekend in my life. I have been fortunate to attend a variety of conferences, but Summit takes the cake, by far.” – Paul, Connecticut
Seongmin taking time to talk with Summit participants at the Rescue Teams Speakeasy.
“I’m still stunned that we could just walk up and talk to them [North Korean millennials] for 3 days!” – Shebastian, Colorado
The North Korean Millennials panel at Summit.
“I was completely unsure of what I would do after graduating university next year, let alone what I WANTED to do! I was struggling to find a path that would allow me to take my beliefs and passions and put them into practice. After the Summit, I am more energized, optimistic, and excited about work I can and will do in the future.” – Anna, Chicago
