MISSION STATEMENT
ANKR supports refugees by offering services and spreading awareness of their hardships.
WHAT WE DO
ANKR can’t solve these issues overnight, but we don’t sit idle. ANKR works to empower and restore the refugees’ dignity—not perpetuating their narrative as subjects of pity. ANKR encourages willing refugees to distribute homemade sandwiches and handwritten cards to homeless individuals. Even when tutoring refugees, ANKR realizes that empathy is key to crumbling emotional barriers and sharing a common understanding of the world. Volunteers and refugees of all ages can learn to play Korean traditional instruments in front of homeless individuals and hundreds of churchgoers who need the uplifting sounds of music.
30,000+
North Koreans are refugees.
And the number continues to rise with each coming year.
In 2019, an estimate of 1,047 refugees were able to resettle in South Korean and in 2018, and estimate of 1,137 refugees were able to do the same. The border control in the North was significantly tightened to prevent spread of the Covid-19 virus.
63 North Koreans escaped in 2021—a new low since the 1990s.
Only 220 refugees
have been formally admitted to the United States since 2006.
After the 2004 North Korean Human Rights Act, the annual number of North Korean refugees admitted to the United States have dwindled. Most refugees reside in China, estimated to be between 50,000 and 200,000. China signed the UN convention relating to the status of refugees but the government sees them as migrants without residence permits. All who are caught are returned to North Korea, where they face years in labor camps or often death.
WHAT DRIVES ANKR
Speaking with North Korean refugees makes a person quickly realize that their worst fear is the refugees’ realities: parting with loved ones without guarantee of reuniting. Despite being promised the American Dream of freedom and equality after the challenging endeavor of escape, refugees face discrimination to the point where some express they want to return to North Korea. Some often seek refuge in restrooms to escape exclusion. Rather than a mere volunteer, ANKR works to strengthen their sense of belonging and be their long-term friend by providing a safe space and finding ways for them to contribute to society. The refugees, in return, admirably inspire resilience within every volunteer member.
$3,000
are needed to fully rehabilitate
one refugee.
This includes the cost of rescuing refugees, medical treatment, and other basic necessities.
OUR TEAM
President, Taeyeon Paik
I founded ANKR to address the pressing issues faced by North Korean refugees. ANKR's mission is to shed light on the discrimination refugees face. I aim to provide academic help, emotional support, and practical aid to ensure their well-being. My goal is to empower these refugees and give them the tools to thrive in society.
Vice President, Aaron Kim
I joined ANKR to make a difference. My role involves organizing various fundraising events. These events aim to provide North Korean refugees with the funds necessary to help them out. Every event I’ve organized strives to embody the spirit of community and empathy within this group of North Korean refugees.
Secretary, Kenneth Lee
I joined ANKR because I enjoy helping others. Although I’m very introverted, helping other people is something that makes me happy. I’ve learned so many things, one being that helping others isn't necessarily just giving money, but for example, fundraising. I hope to grow and learn as a person.
Treasurer, Mina Kim
I joined ANKR to increase my involvement and awareness of the issues surrounding my community. It’s a good learning opportunity for current issues that aren’t often taught in school. We host various fundraisers throughout the year such as shoe drives, coin drives, and yard sales to donate to North Korean refugees.
I joined ANKR after learning about the challenges North Korean refugees face. Being part of this organization, I've had the chance to offer academic help and teach art. Every time that I volunteer, I love to spend time with the refugees. I try to make sure that they feel loved and feel a sense of belonging in society.
Member, Woorin Paik
Member, Ashley Shin
I joined ANKR to meet and develop personal connections with new peers and involve myself in good deeds. As a part of this community, I look after preschool children during Saturday school. I assist with lunch preparations, teach the basics of Korean, and provide additional support during activities involving arts and crafts.