During the pandemic, the regime took every opportunity to tighten its control under the guise of stopping the spread of COVID-19. Borders were sealed and reinforced, isolating the country and its people to an unprecedented extent. Trade was cut off, and people’s ability to fend for themselves was highly restricted. At the same time, the regime launched unprecedented crackdowns on foreign media and information. These challenges were outlined in a landmark report by Human Rights Watch last year.
The pandemic may feel like it is in our past, but North Korean people are still dealing with the devastating legacy of these restrictions as they recover from the most acute hardships they have faced this century. At the same time, with increased border security it has become almost impossible to escape from the country.
LiNK is developing initiatives to empower North Korean people inside the country with outside information — creating and curating tailored content, developing technologies with built-in security, and devising strategies to increase the flow of information into North Korea.
LiNK rescues North Korean refugees without cost or condition, and provides crucial resettlement support during this period of transition. We’re one of the only organizations still doing this work since the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, we welcomed 39 North Korean refugees and their children to freedom.
LiNK invests in building the capacity of North Koreans to be leaders and changemakers. Through opportunities like mentorship, scholarships, the LiNK English Language Program, and the Advocacy Fellows program, we’re equipping them with the tools and skills to advocate this issue.
