How Public Speaking Classes Are Empowering North Korean Refugees to Share Their Stories

Empowering Voices: North Korean Refugees Share Inspiring Stories

In the bustling heart of Seoul, over 600 North Korean refugees have found a platform to share their extraordinary stories, thanks to the invaluable support from Freedom Speakers International (FSI). Founded by Casey Lartigue and Eunkoo Lee, FSI provides tuition-free mentorship focused on public speaking and English proficiency. This initiative not only helps refugees communicate more effectively but also empowers them to advocate for their homeland and connect with communities abroad.

A Journey of Transformation Through Speaking

Since its inception in 2013, FSI has transformed the lives of many refugees who have fled the oppressive regime of North Korea. Initially, the organization provided basic English tutoring, recognizing that many refugees lacked the skills necessary to thrive in a new country. However, the founders quickly understood that the longing to tell their stories was equally important. Incorporating public speaking into their curriculum allowed refugees to share their narratives, shed light on the realities in North Korea, and garner international support.

Lartigue noted, "These refugees want to raise awareness about the terrible conditions in North Korea. Speaking out is not just therapy; it is a lifeline for many." By helping them engage in public discourse, FSI opens paths for advocacy that can lead to policy changes and heightened awareness of human rights abuses in North Korea.

Understanding the Refugee Crisis: The Numbers

Since the late 1990s, the number of North Koreans escaping to South Korea has substantially increased. From just a handful each year, the figures now stand at approximately 34,000. This surge highlights a pivotal moment in history where the struggles of North Korean individuals resonate globally. The belief that speaking out could result in punishment for those left behind is slowly being challenged, empowering more individuals to risk everything for freedom.

The Power of Storytelling: A Tool for Healing

At the core of FSI’s mission is the understanding that storytelling is both a form of healing and a method of advocacy. Refugees list five key reasons for wanting to participate in public speaking: raising awareness, advocating for change, sharing their stories, healing from trauma, and building their confidence. Each speech contest organized by FSI serves as a cathartic process where the wounds of the past can begin to heal, one narrative at a time.

Take, for instance, the poignant story of Songmi Han, who escaped North Korea in 2011. After publishing her book, "Greenlight to Freedom," in 2022, her journey exemplifies how individuals can reclaim their narratives and use their experiences as a beacon of hope for others.

Community and Support in Action

FSI has also cultivated a vibrant community where refugees can connect with supportive volunteers, primarily from the United States. The organization’s unique approach—merging English language education with public speaking—creates an environment that fosters growth and solidarity. The diverse backgrounds of the volunteers enrich the experiences of the refugees, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and learning.

Looking Forward: Continuing the Fight for Freedom

As FSI gears up for its 23rd speech contest, the message remains clear: these brave individuals are not just sharing stories; they are championing a cause. By fostering a greater understanding of the struggles faced by North Korean refugees, FSI continues to work towards raising awareness and advocating for meaningful change.

The path to recovery and advocacy is ongoing, and the success of FSI serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Through public speaking, these refugees are reclaiming their voices in a world that has long tried to silence them. Together, they are turning personal stories into powerful narratives of hope and freedom.