Persecuted Christians in North Korea: Stories of Faith and Survival

Life in North Korea remains shrouded in secrecy, with accounts of extreme persecution often emerging only from those who manage to flee. Among the most targeted are the nation’s Christians, who persist in their faith despite severe repercussions.

Details from defectors reveal a grim reality for Christians in the country. Illyong Ju, one such defector, shared with International Christian Concern the perilous journey of maintaining Christian beliefs in North Korea. Despite the threat of imprisonment, torture, or worse, believers continue to practice and share their faith.

Illyong’s family, who resided in Chongjin, clandestinely tuned into Christian radio broadcasts. They eventually reached safety in South Korea, though not all their relatives escaped. When it was discovered that his aunt’s father-in-law was a Christian, her family was sent to a political prison camp.

Defectors frequently describe these camps as sites of unspeakable brutality, characterized by forced labor, torture, and starvation. Children suffer alongside adults in this harsh environment. Illyong recounted that his relatives were executed in the camp, a fate all too common for many.

Another defector, Ms. Kim, endured rape and torture in the camps but found solace in her faith, even evangelizing while imprisoned. She shared her inner dialogue with International Christian Concern: “Jesus, I am full of pain right now, but how painful were you? You were crucified for me.”

Despite such harsh conditions, the Christian community in North Korea is reportedly growing. Illyong emphasized the resilience of these believers, stating, “I want to say to the people who are being persecuted, please don’t lose your hope. We are fighting for you, and our God is fighting for you — and we win. God has already won. So please don’t lose hope, and please stay firm.”

He further highlighted the determination of North Korean Christians: “Our brave brothers and sisters, fellow believers in North Korea, are preaching the gospel. Even this moment. They are multiplying disciples. They worship on the mountains, hills, and underground.”