Struggling with Overwhelming Refugee Expenses
Hello,
We would like to share an update on the recent rescue operation made possible thanks to your support.
Last month, on September 18th, five North Korean defectors safely crossed the border into a third country, finally escaping the long years of fear and hardship.
Although this successful rescue brought great joy, we immediately began worrying about the cost of future operations. Each rescue mission costs between 12 million to 15 million KRW (approximately 9,000 to 11,000 USD), depending on the route, safety conditions, and the number of people involved.
As many of the defectors include women with infants and children, the expenses continue to rise — including food, shelter, and medical needs during their long journey through rough terrain.
NKHR’s refugee rescue operations rely entirely on your donations. Without sufficient funding, it is impossible to guarantee their safety or plan new rescue missions.
Nevertheless, we are committed to continuing our efforts — because every life matters.
Crossing Rivers and Mountains, Carrying a Baby on Her Back
Among the five defectors rescued this time was a mother carrying a baby on her back.
The group began their journey under the cover of night, climbing steep mountain paths and crossing rivers to evade border patrols.
Holding the child tightly to keep it quiet, the mother pressed on despite exhaustion, hunger, and fear.
For several days, the group had little to eat and barely any sleep.
When the child cried from hunger, the mother gave her only rice water, whispering for silence to avoid discovery.
Finally, after days of perilous travel, they reached safety and could rest.
She later told us:
“When I crossed the river holding my baby, I thought I would die together with her.
But when we made it across safely, I couldn’t stop crying.
Thank you for saving our lives.”
We share this story with you to express our heartfelt gratitude — this mother and her child survived because of your support.
Thanks to our donors, these defectors have found safety and hope.
The NKHR Rescue Team will continue its mission to save North Korean refugees, relying entirely on your contributions.
Every rescue is a race against time — and your support truly saves lives.
Thank you for standing with us and giving these people a chance to live with dignity.
October 19, 2023
Citizens’ Alliance for North Korean Human Rights (NKHR)
North Korean Refugee Rescue Project Team
Director: Lee Mi-sook
Deputy Director: Nam Young-suk
Consultants: Lee Sung-joo, Kim Eun-joo, Oh Se-hyuk
Donation Accounts
Woori Bank: 142-097090-01-201 (Citizens’ Alliance for North Korean Human Rights)
Kookmin Bank: 533301-01-050592 (Citizens’ Alliance for North Korean Human Rights)