Even if they make it to China, they face grave danger because the Chinese government arrests and forcibly repatriates North Korean refugees. If sent back, they undergo interrogation and are at risk of extremely harsh punishments including torture, forced labor, forced abortions, and internment in a political prison camp. Even if they manage to evade the authorities in China, their illegal status forces them to work in invisible industries and leaves them vulnerable to exploitation by sex traffickers and unscrupulous employers. In these dire circumstances, many North Korean refugees do not have the resources or connections to get themselves out of China. That’s where we come in.
Ae Ri escaped North Korea with her sister and mother after her father passed away. She is now living in freedom where she enjoys playing soccer and going to school without having to worry about survival.
Eun Ji was born in North Korea so she had to keep her favorite pastimes—dancing and singing to South Korean pop music—secret. She was rescued and now lives in freedom.
Ga Yeon was born in North Korea, but is now living in freedom where she will have the chance to fulfill her human potential.
Ji Hyung escaped North Korea at just over a year old with five of his family members. He will now grow up in freedom, never having to know the life he was bound to live in North Korea.
Ji Yeon escaped from North Korea several times, but was always caught and sent back to face harsh punishments. Since her rescue, she has finally reached safety and no longer has to live in fear.
Yoon Ha was sold into a marriage when she escaped into China. She was eight months pregnant with her daughter when we helped her escape. Today, she and her daughter are living safely in freedom.
After hearing countless stories of North Koreans who have struggled to pay or even find brokers, or were exploited and abused by brokers and other individuals while in search of freedom, we committed to providing a way for North Koreans to make it to safety and freedom without cost or condition. We have steadily garnered information about escape routes through China and Southeast Asia and have established relationships with individuals on the ground who can help us move refugees safely across borders. The free passage model ensures that refugees are treated with dignity and respect throughout the risky journey, and allows them to begin their new lives in freedom without the burden of broker loans.
Funds to provide food, clothing, and other necessities during their journey to safety.
The cost to transport the refugee, partners, and staff during the 3,000-mile journey.
The cost to provide shelter for the refugee and our staff along the journey.
This includes all costs for fines, fees, and the network of partners and staff in the underground to bring the refugee to safety.
Funds set aside for emergencies and unforeseen expenses on the journey. Any unused amount is rolled into the budget for another rescue.
Funds to help resettled North Koreans reach their full potential through our Resettlement Assistance and Empowerment Programs.
