North Korea is a country in which being a Christian is punishable by death. Owning a Bible carries the risk of being subjected to brutal torture.
North Korea is a life gripped by merciless famine, but where those who search for food are executed in the marketplace. North Korean believers are cut off from the outside world and held ransom by the idolatrous regime of a power-hungry dictator.
For most of us, it’s simply unimaginable. But this is the shocking reality of life for the people of North Korea.
World’s worst
It’s not surprising that North Korea has once again ranked highest on the latest Open Doors’ World Watch List. For the seventh year running, North Korea has been rated the world’s worst persecutors of Christians.
Which is why at Open Doors we are more committed than ever to interceding for this desperate country and for our brothers and sisters enduring untold suffering within her borders.
Not forgotten
“The circumstances of life in our country are very difficult,” writes one pastor in a recent letter. “The price of rice continues to increase. Recently, five women were executed in public. Their crime? They were trying to survive by looking for food.”
Despite the risks and restrictions, this pastor thankfully knows that his plight—and that of Christians across the country—is not forgotten by the Body of Christ around the world. “We thank God that there are so many people who are praying for our country,” he shares. “Your prayers strengthen the Christians in North Korea.”
Caring for Christian Women
One area of particular concern for Open Doors is the plight of Christian women trapped inside North Korea. Not only do they endure the daily misery of famine and oppression, many have also been the victims of human trafficking, and are physically and emotionally scarred.
In one project, women are now receiving help and hope through Open Doors. The sisters receive regular Bible training along with financial support to help them meet their families’ needs and fund their children’s education.
“Our greatest reward is to see their lives change through a stronger faith in our Lord,” says one Open Doors co-worker.
Reaching out
Evangelism in North Korea carries immense risks. The spread of Christianity is one of the greatest fears of the country’s infamous leader, Kim Jong Il. It is reported that he recognizes Christianity to be responsible for the fall of communism in Eastern Europe—and is fearful that it will also prove to be his downfall. And so the authorities clamp down harshly on any Christian found to be sharing the gospel.
But against all odds, and by the grace of God, the underground church in North Korea is committed to reaching the country with the Good News of Jesus. “We are doing our best to spread the gospel in North Korea,” writes one pastor. “Please continue to pray for us!”
While the borders of North Korea remain closed, and while the situation for our brothers and sisters remains perilous, we take heart that the Lord is indeed at work. So please join us in hearing the pleas of North Korea’s Christians as they ask for our support. May God use your prayers to break through the borders, advance His Kingdom, and fulfill His purposes in North Korea.
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