1North Korea

North Korea is arguably the most dangerous place on earth to follow Jesus. If someone is discovered to be a Christian, the consequences are unimaginably stark: either imprisonment in one of its notorious labour camps, with little hope of release, or immediate execution. The same fate is likely to await other family members.

While the church buildings displayed in the capital, Pyongyang, might suggest a degree of tolerance, this is propaganda. The reality is very different. Christianity has no place in North Korea, a country where homage must be directed one way only: towards the Kim regime. With watchful eyes everywhere – even from neighbours and family – even the slightest hint of worshipping Jesus can have devastating consequences. Remarkably, believers do gather, but in utmost secrecy and at enormous risk.

Recent years have seen conditions worsen further for North Korea’s secret believers. This is largely due to the “anti-reactionary thought law”, introduced in 2020, which made it even clearer that being a Christian and owning a Bible is regarded as a serious crime. The law has reinforced just how much of a threat Christianity is seen to be by the country’s unbending regime.

Meet Evangelist Cho

“If you want to know why I do it, it’s because of a man named Jesus. He’s the Son of God, and He loves you very much. In fact, I brought you a book that’s all about Him.”

Evangelist Cho* (name changed), who recently passed away, and risked everything to serve North Koreans who escaped the country

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors seeks to strengthen secret believers in North Korea through networks outside the country. This includes emergency relief aid, Christian materials, Christian radio broadcasts and shelter, and training for those who’ve fled the country.