This week in Parliament, MPs, stakeholders, activists, students, and visitors gathered together to engage in conversation about the human rights crisis currently happening in North Korea.
The APPG on North Korea hosted a powerful film screening by defector and director Mr. Heo Young C., exposing the harrowing reality of women and children trafficked and repatriated to China—many forced into marriage, with their children left orphaned. His testimony underscored the urgent need for international action.
Then Dr. Kim Dongsu, Senior Advisor for the National Institute for Security Strategy, shared his journey of discovering democracy for the first time in Parliament, a stark contrast to his upbringing in North Korea. His story highlighted the transformative power of democratic institutions for those fleeing authoritarian rule.
Ms. Kim Kyu Li, a North Korean escapee, gave a heartbreaking account of being the sole surviving member of her family. She detailed the horrors of forced abortions, political prison camps, and the brutal reality of life under the regime, calling on the UK to hold North Korea accountable for its crimes against humanity.
Discussions also explored ways for the APPG to push for stronger action—urging ministers to engage with international partners and leverage parliamentary tools like EDMs and written questions to keep the issue on the agenda.
Sir Iain Duncan Smith reminded us: “To not speak is to speak, to not act is to act.” He emphasized the role of universities and student unions in amplifying these voices, urging the British public to take up the cause.
