North Korea
Country Profile:
North Korea came into existence after World War II, when Korea was partitioned and a communist regime installed in the North. It is one of the most repressive and isolated regimes in the world and denies every kind of human rights to its citizens. International nuclear inspectors were expelled in 2002, as North Korea reactivated its nuclear development program. The government is believed to possess several nuclear weapons, and talks aimed at dismantling Pyongyang’s nuclear program were intermittent in 2004, but have resumed during 2005. This heavily industrialized nation is ruled by a one-man dictatorship with communist influence. Kim Il Sung, the former leader and father of the present dictator, Kim Jong Il, founded an ideology called “Juche,” meaning self-reliance, which is enforced by the ruling elite in every aspect of the culture. All religions have been harshly repressed. Many thousands of Christians have been murdered since the Korean War. Little is known about today’s underground church since most Christians practice their faith in deep secrecy and constant danger. The three churches in the capital of Pyongyang are for show only. It has been estimated that as many as 3 million have died of starvation as famine continues to grip this nation. The government stockpiles rations for military use only. There is a huge black market within the ranks of those in power. Seeking relief from such harsh living conditions, many North Koreans flee to China, where if caught, they face being returned to their country and almost certain death. Source is VOM Newsletters

Language: Korean