Liberty in North Korea

Results: We have rescued over 60 refugees from hiding in China and continue to bring awareness with our year-round tours

Programs: Changing the narrative: liberty in north korea (the organization) works directly with north korean defectors and other experts to develop new insights and ways of understanding the issue in order to change and broaden the public's perception of north korea, and ultimately to mobilize increased support and attention. This is accomplished through three primary strategic areas: 1) creating media & documentaries: the organization creates short and long-form videos and other media that focus on the north korean peoples challenges as well as their potential. In 2014 the organization created 101 short films and videos to share online, in presentations, and at events around the world. 2) engaging with international journalists and policymakers: the organization engages with international journalists, filmmakers, diplomats and other policymakers to influence the way the media reports on north korea as well as the way that governments and policymakers think about the issue. In 2014, the organization was cited 140 times in the media, helping to influence and shape perceptions on north korea and draw further attention to the north korean people and the important changes they are driving inside the country. 3) direct grassroots engagement: through global online campaigns and tours across north america, the organization shares the stories of the north korean people and promotes a broader perspective on the issue. In 2014, the organization met over 52,000 people at 782 venues in nearly 40 states and provinces. Also in 2014, over 325 rescue teams (chapters) around the world worked to build support for the north korean people on a local level.

refugee work: the organization provides direct humanitarian assistance to north korean refugees in three primary areas: 1) refugee rescues: north koreans who have escaped into china face the twin threats of repatriation and exploitation. The organization brings these north korean refugees through their networks that cover 3,000 miles of secret rescue routes, helping them safely resettle in south korea and the u. S. Without cost or condition. In 2014, the organization helped to bring 108 north korean refugees safely out of china. 2) resettlement assistance: newly arriving refugees face a range of resettlement challenges in their new societies, particularly in their first 24 months. The organizations resettlement assistance program is designed to help refugees make a smooth adjustment and quick transition to self-sufficiency. In 2014, the organization provided resettlement assistance to over 120 north korean refugees. 3) empowerment programs: as resettled north koreans pursue their long-term dreams and ambitions in their new societies they still do not face a level playing field. The organizations empowerment programs are designed to provide opportunities and enhanced support in the areas of education, personal development and career development so that resettled north koreans can fulfill their potential. In 2014, 20 individuals participated in the organization's empowerment programs.

research & strategy: the organization engages in research and strategy that has a direct impact on its ability to achieve its mission. Through interviews with north korean refugees and ongoing research, the organization works to develop long-term, people-focused strategies that will accelerate positive change inside the country. By collaborating with a variety of constituents, the organization continues to develop a holistic understanding of the issue in order to create and implement the best approaches. The organization also utilizes this research to provide updated information and important insights to the public.