Fleeing from North Korea

Kang Gyu-ri came from one of the wealthiest families in North Korea. Her experiences in the US are a stark contrast to those she faced under the strict regime of the Kim Jong dynasty. They remind us of the freedoms that we often take for granted. Watch her reactions as she speaks before the UN, including her initial impressions of life in the United States.

The same holds for Hanaya (Hana) and Ina, two sisters who escaped from the bonds of the same dictatorship. During a harrowing life-or-death venture in 2000, Hana and her younger sibling crossed the frozen Tumen River at night, into China. At one point, a stretch of dark, icy waters lay before them. Knowing that Ina (deathly afraid of water after a near-death experience) would hesitate, Ina bravely dove in, grasping onto an outstretched branch, while calling out to Ina. “Let’s go back,” Ina begged, but Hana would not give in. “Jump. Jump. I will not let you go,” she urged. “I’ll catch you!” Finally, despite her fears, she took a (literal) leap of faith, knowing that the only thing waiting back in North Korea was starvation.

Now living in South Korea and running successful YouTube Channels, the sisters share their new lives, including several eye-opening adventures in the United States. Curious yet cautious, they faced customs and the strange Americans with big eyes and noses. Relying on what they’d been force-fed all their lives, they expected a country filled with angry, vicious, and unfriendly people. Yet, they were pleasantly surprised when strangers smiled at them and offered their help when they were lost in the whirlwind of New York’s plane and railroad stations. Each day (and subsequent trips) brought unexpected treasures, interesting and delicious food, and a smorgasbord of eclectic sights and sounds. It was a life-changing experience, especially for Ina, always the more cautious one.

Please follow their channels. It’s a revelation.

Hana

Ina

Even though America might not be perfect, it’s helpful to remind ourselves of all the earthly riches/rights we have at our fingertips. Oftentimes, we need to put ourselves in other people’s shoes. Just ask Kang Gyu-ri, Hana, and Ina.