NORTH KOREA: ‘IT IS OUR DUTY AND MISSION’

“We need food”, North Korean Christians tell Open Doors every year. “Without food, we cannot function as an underground church. We don’t have the energy.”

It’s a need that your generous support is going some way towards meeting. “We are able to help thousands of Christians each year with food aid, through our networks in China,” shares Brother Simon*, Open Doors’ coordinator for ministry among North Koreans.

“The Christians are very grateful for all the food support, the medicines and clothing. When they eat, they thank the Lord for you, our supporters, for your generosity. Together, we can chase away the tormentor that’s called ‘hunger’, even if it’s just for a little while.”

Lack of food isn’t a new problem in North Korea. The ‘Arduous March’ of the 1990s is the name given to a devastating famine in the country – it was a catastrophe. The regime admitted to 225,000 deaths, but independent estimates say up to 3.5 million people perished. Millions of lives lost – not to war, but to empty plates.

Today, history appears to be repeating itself. According to the UN’s State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World Report 2023, some 45% of North Koreans (more than 12 million people) are undernourished. 

‘It’s our duty and mission’

“We are trying to look after believers, and try to understand the circumstances and give necessary help,” says a believer in the country. “It’s our duty and mission. But because of our limitations, we cannot help all families in difficulties. We try our best to help the poorest families among us. This is only possible thanks to what you give to us.”

It’s not just your practical support that means so much to our North Korean family – it’s also your prayers. “We are grateful for your prayers,” says a secret believer. “We are proud to be part of God’s kingdom and are motivated to live for Christ alone. We can do that thanks to the strength you give us.”

A North Korean escapee says, “If you could see what God is doing in my country, you would never have any doubts again. The Holy Spirit is at work, thanks to your prayers.”

“We are committed to lay down our lives for the gospel”, says another believer in the country. “We will fulfil the commission and we will never forsake the truth.”

“Please continue to stand with us”, adds Brother Simon. “Not out of pity or out of guilt, but out of love. Love doesn’t just see the pain. It steps into it and says: ‘You are not alone.’”

*Names changed for security reasons