The human rights situation in North Korea is often overshadowed by security issues and geopolitical tensions on the Korean peninsula. While global attention focuses on nuclear threats and diplomatic negotiations, the severe conditions faced by 24 million North Koreans are frequently forgotten. These individuals endure severe restrictions on freedom of expression, forced labor, inadequate healthcare, and other abuses. As Nelson Mandela said, “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” Vision North is dedicated to bringing these violations to the forefront of global consciousness and building solidarity toward their resolution.

Women constitute the majority of North Korean defectors in China, fleeing oppressive conditions and seeking a better life. Unfortunately, many fall victim to human trafficking, forced marriages, sexual violence, and forced labor, living in constant fear of deportation.

Hyeonseo Lee, Vision North’s president and a defector herself, has been instrumental in raising global awareness of these issues. As the first North Korean defector to share her story and the plight of her fellow North Koreans on the TED stage and other platforms, she has significantly contributed to bringing global attention to the suffering of North Korean defectors.

If you wish to support our cause, you can donate to Vision North, which directly funds our advocacy activities. For inquiries, please contact us.