Braving the Silence: A Journey of Hope and Empowerment

In the bustling streets of Seoul, an inspiring story unfolds—one of resilience, healing, and the power of speaking out. A unique organization is bridging the gap for North Korean refugees by transforming their struggles into strength, illuminating the path toward freedom and self-expression.

Seoul, once distant for many, has become home to tens of thousands of North Korean refugees, each carrying a heavy emotional burden from their past. Here, Freedom Speakers International (FSI) is making a difference, offering compassionate mentorship and the priceless gift of voice through public speaking and English language training.

Founded in 2013 by Casey Lartigue and Eunkoo Lee, FSI has welcomed over 600 refugees. Their mission: to empower these individuals to share their stories and connect with the world. As the founders put it, “It’s not just about learning English; it’s about learning to express oneself.”

Back when they began, Casey and Eunkoo were motivated by a pressing need. “How many North Korean refugees could there be?” Casey recalled pondering, unaware of the growing wave of escapees. By the late 1990s, a profound shift occurred, and the number of refugees soared—about 1,000 each year sought refuge in South Korea.

Initially focused on English tutoring, Casey’s vision expanded when he recognized the longing of these refugees to tell their stories. “Their narratives matter; they deserve to be heard,” he emphasized, leading to the inception of public speaking programs. By 2015, FSI held its first speech contest, igniting a powerful platform for expression among the refugees.

With time, FSI adapted their programs to include public speaking courses. This shift not only met the immediate needs brought on by the pandemic but also opened doors for deeper connections. Many former refugees now share their motivation to engage in public speaking—ranging from raising global awareness about conditions in North Korea to healing personal traumas.

Through FSI, individuals like Songmi Han are reclaiming their stories. After escaping in 2011, she joined FSI and published her book, Greenlight to Freedom, in 2022. “For years, I was unable to speak about my past; now, I feel it’s vital to share,” she expressed, reflecting on her journey of transformation.

Giving a Voice to the Voiceless

Songmi’s experiences are emblematic of the courage and determination shared by many at FSI. Each story told helps paint a broader picture of life in North Korea, and the desire to raise awareness is palpable. “People need to understand what is happening,” one participant asserted, highlighting their commitment to advocacy.

Harvesting hope, healing, and empowerment has become FSI’s mantra. They encourage their members to confront their personal battles while fostering a supportive community. Donations and volunteers play a crucial role in sustaining this vital work, inspiring a collective outpouring of courage and compassion.

As the 23rd speech contest approaches, excitement builds within the FSI community. Volunteers, particularly passionate Americans, rally together, exemplifying the spirit of solidarity that transcends borders. In the sanctuary of FSI, North Korean refugees are not just learning to speak English; they are courageously reclaiming their narratives and inspiring others to do the same.

SHARE the inspiring journey of Freedom Speakers International as they uplift North Korean refugees and fuel their quest for healing and freedom!