Many North Korean youth face significant educational and social challenges after resettlement. Due to the stark differences between the North and South Korean education systems and the learning gaps that often arise during their escape journey, they frequently fall behind their South Korean peers in basic academic skills. As a result, many enter school at lower grade levels than their age group and struggle with cultural and linguistic differences, as well as confusion around identity—all of which make integration into school and society difficult.
Since its founding, NKHR has operated a wide range of educational and support programs to help young North Korean defectors successfully settle and become self-reliant members of South Korean society.
To address these challenges, NKHR has operated education and resettlement support programs for North Korean youth since 1999, providing guidance to help them achieve stability and personal growth. These programs aim to improve academic performance, build confidence, support career development, and foster leadership. The curriculum includes academic classes, presentation training, civic education, career and university guidance (such as job experience and campus visits), and leadership training. NKHR also provides scholarships and living support to help North Korean students and university attendees focus on their studies, and offers international internship opportunities through partnerships with private and academic institutions. Many beneficiaries have gone on to graduate from university and pursue successful careers in various fields—some even becoming advocates for North Korean human rights. These young people are growing into future leaders who will play a vital role on the Korean Peninsula when reunification comes.
In addition to these programs, NKHR runs public education initiatives to raise awareness of North Korean human rights among the general public and youth. Under the slogan “Love to learn, and learn to love,” these programs aim to deepen understanding and empathy for North Korean defectors by sharing their resettlement experiences and stories of human rights violations in North Korea. Activities include awareness sessions at universities and institutions, as well as interactive programs that facilitate exchanges with North Korean defectors and refugees—helping to foster a more compassionate and inclusive society.