Choi Min-kyung, a 53-year-old North Korean defector, has filed a lawsuit in South Korea against Kim Jong-un and six officials, seeking 50 million won ($37,000) for torture and sexual violence she suffered in North Korean detention. She also filed a criminal complaint asking for an investigation into crimes against humanity. Choi was repatriated from China four times and was tortured during her final detention in 2008. Her case includes serious abuse, such as beatings and sexual assault. This is the first time a defector has taken such legal action in South Korea. Supported by the Database Center for North Korean Human Rights (NKDB) and lawyer Lee Young-hyun, the case may help future lawsuits and international justice efforts. While South Korea can hear these cases, enforcement is not possible. Still, Choi hopes this sets a foundation for justice and human rights for other victims of North Korea’s regime. She says, “We are the living witnesses.”
Pray for the international lawmakers to take immediate action to end the oppression in North Korea. Pray for the international authorities to urge the North Korean government to uphold the rights and freedoms of its citizens (The Holy Bible, Job 36:6).
Pray for divine provision and protection upon all the people in North Korea, especially those suffering in prisons. Pray for justice and peace to prevail in the nation (The Holy Bible, Deuteronomy 32:4).
News Source: The Guardian
Image Source: Canva
