Thousands of North Koreans are being sent to Russia to work in harsh, slave-like conditions as Russia faces a major labour shortage due to its war with Ukraine. South Korean officials say over 10,000 workers were sent in 2024, with more expected, possibly reaching 50,000. Most work on construction sites for up to 20 hours a day with only two days off a year. They live in filthy, overcrowded places and are constantly watched by North Korean security agents. Injuries are ignored, and wages are mostly taken by the North Korean regime. Russia uses student visas to bypass UN bans on forced labour. Workers are heavily controlled through propaganda sessions and are rarely allowed to leave their sites. Some have managed to escape using smuggled phones, but this is becoming harder. Experts believe this mass labour export will continue even after the war ends, reflecting a deepening alliance between North Korea and Russia.
Father GOD, we pray for justice and fair treatment for all North Korean workers facing exploitation in Russia. We pray for the immediate and effective implementation of ‘Labor Reform Initiatives’ to protect the workers (The Holy Bible, Isaiah 1:17).
Almighty GOD, we pray for Your divine protection upon all the North Korean workers who are working in dangerous conditions. May they experience kindness and fairness in their workplace. (The Holy Bible, Job 36:6).
Pray against the labor and soldiers trade between North Korea and Russia. Pray for divine protection for all the innocent North Koreans forced to move to Russia. Pray for the safe return of all the North Koreans who are forced to work abroad by the North Korean government (The Holy Bible, Psalm 22:11).
News Source: BBC
Image Source: Canva
