Learning Freedom: Help Educate North Korean Youth

One of the goals of the Learning Freedom campaign is help youth from North Korea pursue meaningful and successful careers now that they are members of a modern and free society. Back in North Korea they lacked the freedom to chart their own career paths. In North Korea, your profession is chosen for you by the government, and it is largely based on your family’s place in the country’s rigid political and social hierarchy.

Having been raised in such an environment, North Korean youth often lack awareness when they arrive in South Korea of the types of careers available to them and the skills necessary to pursue their chosen path. NKHR’s career training program helps them navigate the difficult decisions integral to finding fulfilment in their careers.

The career training program typically spans nine months and includes visits to college campuses throughout Seoul, college entrance information sessions, career exploration activities, and one-on-one mentoring. For example, students have experienced life as a surgeon, stock market trader, Seoul transit authority officer, air traffic controller, firefighter, and paramedic. The career training program is intended to help high school students identify academic and career tracks that match their interests and talents.

Students also receive counseling and assistance with their college applications. Five students who participated in the program were recently accepted into university.

At our last university visit, the students spoke with a senior student from North Korea who had also resettled in South Korea, Hye Ji Kim. He had once been in their position.

Hye Ji advised them that when they choose their majors or plan for their futures, they must think about their own interests, not only what others think is best. "Find out what you are passionate about.” He also reminded them that competing with South Korean students is difficult, but not to give up. “You have already shown that you are capable of great success by attending school in South Korea. Keep working hard and you will achieve even more.”

But perhaps most importantly, he reminded them to “be grateful for all the people around the world who support North Korean refugees.” Indeed, without the support of generous people around the world, NKHR would be unable to help so many North Koreans successfully rebuild their lives in South Korea. Of the funds used to support the career training program, $1,200 came from your donations on globalgiving.org. Thank you!