Escaping North Korea: The Plight of Defectors
Hearing Notice
Please join the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission for a hearing on the status of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
The North Korean regime under the leadership of Kim Jong Il is one of the worst violators of human rights in the world. Countless individuals attempt to flee the country each year seeking freedom and a better life. Unfortunately, the nightmare continues for many who cross the northern border into the People’s Republic of China. All too often these defectors become victims of human trafficking or face repatriation to North Korea if discovered by Chinese authorities. As North Korea appears to be preparing for a transition in leadership, the human rights situation remains precarious.
If you have any questions, please contact 202-225-3599.
Hosted by:
Member of Congress
Co-Chair, TLHRC
Member of Congress
Co-Chair, TLHRC
Witnesses
- Carl Gershman, president, National Endowment for Democracy
Written testimony - Su-Jin Kang, founder and director, Coalition for North Korean Women's Rights
Written testimony - Mi Sun Bahng, North Korean defector
Written testimony - Jin Hae Jo, North Korean defector
Written testimony - Steve Kim, founder and director, 318 Partners
Written testimony