Jill

Jill asked Suki Kim:

The story of your time in the DPRK was heartbreaking and so consistent with other books I've recently read about life under the dictatorship of the Kim family. Do you believe that we will see real change in North Korea in our lifetime? And have you heard from PUST leadership since the publication of your book?

Suki Kim 1) I hope that we see real changes in North Korea in our lifetime, but to do that, this current regime would have to fall. I cannot see how any real changes -- not just a facade of changes -- are possible under the brutal military dictatorship that rules with an iron fist, using the cult of the Great Leader.
2) Yes, PUST leadership was very angry, and I am sorry for hurting some of their feelings. In order for them to operate there, (and to fulfill their long-term agenda of eventually converting the vulnerable people there to Christianity ) they need to maintain and perpetuate the propaganda of DPRK being as free and open as any other country. But perpetuating the DPRK regime's propaganda only hurts the rest of the 25 million North Koreans.

More Answered Questions

Erica Sutter

Erica Sutter asked Suki Kim:

Related to one of your other answers: Do you think it is a realistic possibility that since PUST is training the sons of the elite - the ones likely to have "power" next - that the subtle exposures you and other PUST teachers exposed them to of the outside world will cause them to seek change in the regime?

Jean Farrell

Jean Farrell asked Suki Kim:

First, thank you for this book, which gives an unusual perspective on life in North Korea. Are you aware of any ramifications to the school, or to your former colleagues and students as a result of the publication of your book? Will you be unable to return to North Korea in the future as a result of the publication of this book?

Richard Mansel

Richard Mansel asked Suki Kim:

Thank you for your great work in this book. The methods of the North Korean government to infantilize the population were heartbreaking to read. As time passes, what remains precious to you about the indomitable spirit of the North Korean people?

All answers from Suki Kim…

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