VIDEO: From Orphan to the TED Stage - Joseph Kim
Joseph Kim was like most kids growing up; he played outside, climbed trees, and loved his big sister, who he often relied on for guidance and care when his mother was away. But things changed for Joseph during the height of the famine in North Korea. His father died of starvation and shortly after, his family lost their house. Joseph's mother and sister crossed into China to search for food and never returned. He was completely on his own and had to beg on the street to survive.
Watch Joseph's video below to learn more about his life in North Korea and where he is now.
Learn more:
Joseph's TED talk
Summit Speaker Spotlight: Joseph Kim
5 TED Talks About North Korea You DEFINITELY Don’t Want To Miss
Five stories that illustrate the strength and humanity of the North Korean people
From a Street Kid in North Korea to a College Student in New York
North Korean defector Joseph Kim shares his story of growing up in North Korea during the famine. In this TED Talk he shares how an “act of love and caring” can change someone’s life.
It Was The “Best Country on the Planet” — Until She Realized People Were Dying
Hyeonseo Lee recounts her harrowing experience getting herself and her family out of North Korea and shares how getting to freedom was only half the battle.
Teaching North Korea’s Elite
Suki Kim went undercover as a teacher in North Korea to learn more about the closed-off country. The more time she spent with her students, the more she learned about the brutality of the regime but also the potential of the people.
Bonding in Captivity
Documentary journalist Euna Lee shares how being held captive in North Korea showed her the humanity of the North Korean people.
Change in North Korea is Not Just Possible — It’s Inevitable
LiNK’s Director of Research and Strategy Sokeel Park explains how the outside information pouring into North Korea is empowering the people and creating change within the country.
