Escaping from North Korea Three Times: Kim Pil-Ju's Story | STAY CURIOUS #6

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[@AsianBoss]

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[@rutusayswhat]

"Do you have any future plans?" "I wish for nothing more. I'm alive. I'm still breathing."

[@ahmed38247]

I have freedom*

[@thesea7965]

and here we are...complaining about the dumbest things..

[@Jay-bc7ue]

That’s beautiful

[@jacksonrj14]

He shoud write a book about his story and the dictatorship of the North Korean government.

[@eirik874]

"Freedom"

[@adhiraa2029]

"I am going to die either way. I'd rather die on my way to see my mom."

[@maulana7586]

🇮🇩?

[@ostschnaller]

did he see his mom again? they dont tell us in the vid...

[@wumpascott]

this is the line that hit me the hardest.

[@hotsuperior23]

HP I don’t think he saw his mom again

[@chinnjk]

Water works when I heard that 😭

[@normalnani893]

He looks really young, almost child-like, but at the same time, old and tired.

[@hal7741]

JohnDear,WhereisNani early malnutrition and starvation can cause someone to look feebler and younger/shorter than they could have been. Like stunted growth basically

[@bobjacobson858]

@@hal7741 I've read that the average height in NK is something like 4 inches shorter than that in SK.

[@lindafiske7909]

That's because he's been through so much "hell" in his life. It has taken years off his life it looks like.

[@soju81]

JohnDear,WhereisNani I agree with what everyone said. It’s because he was so innocent but went through a lot... I had the chance to eat dinner with some North Korean refugees when I was in South Korea and they did look much older than I thought.... 😭

[@lisariggio4418]

He eating a Glizzy we?

[@jadoisready]

Dude, i couldn't interview him. I'd be crying with him.

[@lejlasikiric9430]

my thought the hwole time

[@bluehorizons8913]

Jasdne R exactly what I was thinking! I’d be crying and holding him and wanting to make him as much rice and fried eggs as he’d like.

[@erikeriks]

Ok

[@cesaredpinoza1906]

It would be very ridiculous. but it's real 😂

[@brown_skin_lover_queen5790]

I would want to hug him if he let me cuz his life make me want to show him love

[@imebre2855]

No, seriously, if he needs money, help him to write a book. It's gonna be bestseller.

[@llovescake15]

other north koreans already did

[@fatimah3228]

but he should write his own about how he escaped Korea because everyone has different experiences. And if people have bought other ones they will surely buy this too.

[@chloewells4385]

If you haven't, you should read Nothing to Envy by Barbara Demick. She's not North Korean, but she spent a lot of time in the country and interviewed defectors. It's an amazing book.

[@saletteyang]

yup, I would buy his book. His story is heartbreaking.

[@djdjswgjmjs1151]

Please asian boss

[@kientran8791]

Bruh the story about the little girl broke my heart

[@yahmahnomeh]

KIEN TRAN mine too.

[@latina1700]

For real

[@tele2269]

Bless her

[@jojo-xk8ri]

KIEN TRAN me too.

[@tallll70]

Same here, it will stay in my memory for while. Interesting how strange people will get connected to somebody's life through story telling, but the affected person will never know

[@hiikarinnn]

I have actually met Pil ju theough a student club of mine and gone to events with him! He’s such a friendly and bright person to be around :) I just stumbled upon this video today and I was like oh my god I know this guy:0!

[@zephyr_]

Student club? Where is he now?

[@ku_kuzzz]

tell him to write a book and share his story! it will have many benefits

[@XAntohax]

Really?? What's with him now?

[@winnie_shen]

You are so lucky!! I want to meet him some day too!!

[@NxAni]

He's been through so much..

[@afonsords]

Imagine being the man who sold a teenager back into the most evil regime and being able to sleep at night.

[@AbstractJJJ]

Imagine doing it every day for money. Presumably it wasn't the first or last time he was an informant; I doubt he gave Pil-Ju a 2nd thought. A despicable sub-human.

[@maximchintalov8387]

I doubt he knew that much about the situation of North Korea and thinks they are just illegal immigrants trying to cross the border, and that he is doing the right thing.

[@leonardodalongisland]

Two words: SCUM BAG

[@vojvoda-draza]

That guy seems like a real gunk

[@zlatniljiljan2529]

@@vojvoda-draza tvoja profilna slika😂

[@amanpanda4497]

"i ask for nothing more, i have freedom and I am alive", shows life has been kind to many of us in many different ways. God bless everyone.

[@evaundele123]

Aman Panda I think his story is a miracle. He cheated death so many times and now this intelligent man is able to tell us about his hardships and to educate all of us. Nothing but respect for this man. God bless him.

[@Sul227]

Aman Panda god does not exist, god clearly did not bless him or the others who have to endure this every day in North Korea. You are disgusting for saying that god should bless them, when it clearly doesn't work.

[@shariquenguyen4945]

@@Sul227 lol I knew some stupid kid would comment something like this. There is always a hateful atheist commenting on a post with god in it

[@shariquenguyen4945]

@@Sul227 hypocrite. says the one who insulted someone

[@shariquenguyen4945]

@@Sul227 your whole comment makes yourself look completely stupid. "talk to me instead of insulting me" Is what your dumbass just did

[@notthefather3919]

When he got emotional about the flies, my heart broke for him. 😢

[@jackburton6330]

Right then is when I caught feels. In fact that's where it's on pause for me right now. I've seen the video before, but coming back, I... can't get past that just yet.

[@applefoodie]

Yeah, that was the part that really got to me. He's a strong guy, but you could see his emotion come through as he was describing that part.

[@violetsparkles5453]

It’s stuff out of a nightmare

[@chinnjk]

Idk how these defectors are so strong. Not saying they don't have pain, but I know a lot of people, probably including myself, who would be breaking down all the time. They truly are some of the strongest people I have ever seen.

[@rochelleabrantes2100]

His voice broke down a bit but damn.. it hits me hard. They were just kids and yet the amount of suffering is extreme. I just wished for his happiness

[@abuzaidkhan99]

I am going to respect my rice and eggs more than anything now.

[@carlostoshi3093]

It's actually quite good

[@keephappy4216]

Yess :) lets be thankful in anything we have

[@diamond_0613]

"My only wish is to have a bowl of white rice with a fried egg which is something I had never eaten." Imagine his and his mother's mental amd emotional strength to stay sane and hopeful in a situation like that.

[@solsin9386]

Wow you said perfectly

[@mymobilebuddy4392]

All he wants is a bowl of rice and an egg. Peanut butter, crackers, Twinkies, cookies, and candy. I can easily get all this. Such an incredible story of courage and strength.

[@nobody8328]

I want to fry so many eggs for this guy.

[@simona_sigmund1001]

nobody How about you fry the eggs, I'll boil the rice?

[@shirleywong4333]

evil ruler

[@forgottenecho2163]

@@rrosse You do that, I'll get started on some ice-cream.

[@rrosse]

Forgotten Devil wanna help me bake the cookies?

[@anonympassingby1983]

Although he laughed when telling the episode that he and his mom keep punched his nose, my heart was broken at that moment. the mother who punch her son's nose to save his life........ it's a real tragedy :( I'm glad he's happy in South Korea now.

[@misterdinner3648]

Salmon 0205 i mean, the dude was laughing about it now so i dont know why youre feeling bad.

[@maratpirate6343]

Mister Dinner some people are just sentimental, also he wouldnt cry during interview, laughing is a defencive function for some people to not cry

[@zylbr3981]

what happened to his mother after he escaped?

[@sarahfull06]

zyl br i have the same question in my mind, i wonder what happened to her mom but i feel like she was left at north korea and probably went back to her husband :((

[@nautical6]

+srh prr The top comment says that she defected to China, but was caught and sent back to North Korea twice. Extremely sad, because of how close she was. I've read that North Korean defectors are put into labor camps once caught defecting, so that may unfortunately be where she is currently.

[@blueshattrick]

Don't even share the same language, yet could watch this guy speak for hours.

[@violetsparkles5453]

Me too

[@Dom_om_nom]

They do, the North Korean dialect is still similar to the South Korean dialect. North and South Koreans both speak the Korean language and write in Hangeul/Hangul (in North Korea it's called Joseongeul/Chosongul). The difference between the two dialects is only some small differences in accents and vocabulary.

[@peterchen1231]

@@Dom_om_nom I think you misunderstand what he trynna to say here…..

[@user-rm3ws9km3o]

As a Chinese, I apologize to you for the inhumanity of our government.

[@khronin]

I am Irish_ American and this is a crime against humanity.Our governments need to overthrow these dictators--and have a plan with the UN.If any war breaks out all china is interested in is stopping the flow of these people while allowing the elite who cause this to escape to china safely--this is atrocious.

[@doggityy]

@@user-rm3ws9km3o 所以您认为朝鲜应该保持现状？你生病了

[@user-rm3ws9km3o]

@@doggityy 我说的是中国，朝鲜该怎么改变我管不了

[@doggityy]

@@user-rm3ws9km3o 朝鲜拥有世界上最大的军事力量，当然中国和美国不会与他们作战

[@martinnieva8484]

How can you get into KZbin in China?

[@mandatorial]

His life should be turned into a movie. Are there any good movies about North Korea?

[@Riotewo]

Mandatorial yes, jurasic world

[@raul8401]

Mandatorial there's a movie called 'Crossing' which tells the story about the North Korean defectors. It's really sad. You will have a better idea about how their life is like.

[@nomore__5372]

Mandatorial yes there is a movie based on true story of a north korean defector. This movie is called "crossing "(2008)

[@scorpiaflueman8344]

There's also Commitment (2013)

[@Riotewo]

Scorpia Flueman yeah star wars

[@aseelnour1050]

He should write a book about his life!

[@marionn.7351]

trash yassss. And what it's like to practically be living in another century, compared to 20th century-esque North Korea!

[@criticalhard]

Marion N. i'd say 20th century.

[@jillthompson6110]

Unfortunately, there are more than 30,000 similar stories like that in South Korea, not to mention thousands of more unlucky North Korean people who still live in hiding in China. His story would not be unique at all.

[@catnister9135]

As a South Korean, his discription in native korean is really touching....he should definately portrait a book about his life. 필주씨 진심으로 책 쓰시는 거 생각해보셨으면 좋겠습니다! :)

[@DR.ELEKTRIK]

천사 No one gives a shit about that ruthless and pathetic Country!! Don't try to convince us that life in North Korea is superior when in fact it is not. If it was soo superior then why is it the only Country on Earth isolated from the rest of the world?

[@360Fov]

He has the most amazing sense of humour, and seriously the moment he sees his stepfather in the van, that could be such a major twist in a film. His story needs to be told.

[@Nightdreaux22647]

If Pil-Ju's Life story adapted into a movie, it would be really amazing and sad. If only there is a South Korean movie director that wants to make movie based on Pil-Ju's life and possibly other defectors too.

[@nsi79]

​@@Nightdreaux22647 There's a lot actually movie/drama based on north korea.they just somehow didn't make his story

[@princesse0920]

I'm so glad that little girl got to spend her last moments with such a nice guy😭😭 I think she's looking down at him and saying "I'm proud of you"

[@samanthad2147]

I have no doubt she was the angel watching over him as he jumped into the hole walking back to NK with the guards looking on. NK - worse than HELL there.

[@beandiesel974]

Timestamp?

[@AtlanteanAngel]

@@beandiesel974 About the little girl, her story starts from 2:25

[@SomeOne-ti2cz]

yes, in fairytales maybe

[@charismaticmoon9287]

He's a precious human being He need to be protected

[@AtlisDe]

yeah, he seems very sweet and is able to laugh after all the things he was put through. I think a lot of people would find it hard to do so.

[@jokerofmorocco]

The sad thing is there are millions of North Koreans who have it worse than him being trapped in that prison

[@RosemaryTurner2002]

Tali De Seeing him laugh genuinely made me happy. It’s so *rare* to see a *North Korean* genuinely laugh.

[@sergiosengkey1133]

Yes, like how american kill syrian iraq and afganistan

[@lindafiske7909]

And all the other North Koreans need to get freed as well. Enough of the madness already. After all it is the 21st century now. Barbarism has to end is what i think. 🙂🇺🇸🗽✌🙏⛪

[@cloroxbleach5159]

Omg poor him, still feels bad about not swatting the flies when he was 10, I feel horrible because I complain about the stupidest things...

[@kubacakagoomba]

If I were him, at that point I'd just drink you.

[@vxillan8671]

@@kubacakagoomba I was so confused by your comment until I saw his profile picture!😂

[@Plumpersis]

Realization of people having too much freedom but abusing it in a nonsense ways.

[@decalcomani1169]

he was 12, the girl who died was 10

[@goodnight2931]

Don't worry, it's okay to complain, you're allowed to have feelings, just because others have it worse than you doesn't dismay your bad feelings. All you can do is try your best & be kind & generous to everyone, especially people who have it harder then you ♡

[@trashketchup1497]

He’s so intelligent and compassionate even after ever thing he has gone through 🖤

[@fogrunr5075]

Emotional intelligence is the highest intelligence.

[@trashketchup1497]

Definitely!

[@davidselovin6053]

absolutley....also loved his laughter!

[@garimakilledar5810]

Not 'inspite of', but 'because of'. It's because he has gone through so much in life that he is so intelligent and compassionate. Coz he has seen and experienced things which most of us have not even imagined. So he has a better understanding of life, emotions and what's 'really' important for us to be happy.

[@farisfathoni]

He learnt from the streets. Literally the worst street in the world.

[@greendestinyph]

I have watched several documentaries on North Korean defectors but Pil-Ju is one of the most unique, mainly because having Hemophilia is not easy, and its amazing how someone who was in his situation could endure everything he did. He isn't bitter or angry, instead he remained hopeful even now as he assimilates into South Korean society. His story is inspiring for us not to take our privileges for granted. He tells it with such vivid clarity. He should write a book about his experiences and insights. Such deep and mature thoughts from a young fellow.

[@louisaisthankful4603]

My educated guess is that he was Severely anemic, which causes you to bleed easily. Hopefully he has received nourishment from good food and is no longer bleeding/anemic. Nonetheless he is a great man and I am glad he is free!

[@namjoonstrashbag6889]

Im never complaining about my hardships ever again

[@jackburton6330]

Ditto

[@ansh2771]

Let’s see

[@RosemaryTurner2002]

NAMJOON’S TRASHBAG Same. Well...I’m not gonna complain about petty stuff.

[@nezyzenie8391]

U will its just a matter of time

[@allen8478]

I don't want to complain about anything about my life either, but sadly, I know that one day in the mot so far future, I'll be complaining about my 'feewings'

[@andreanagoh6020]

This video just made me realise how fortunate and blessed I am

[@lejlasikiric9430]

RIGHT

[@TheMrTape]

Just because you're a lesser slave doesn't mean you're free.

[@allen8478]

@@TheMrTape yeah but your a lesser slave, much rather be a lesser slave than be a more-er slave. Imagine being the slave that has to work 18 hours a day and then bearing the 'lesser slave' complain to you about how bad HIS life is when you know for a fact he gets vacation days and paid time off, a pension, sick days, and even healthcare.

[@stingrae919]

TheMrTape but it can mean you’re blessed. Depending on the circumstances.

[@765respect]

All the complaining crybabies need to watch this.

[@froggergypsy4596]

Im almost 50 yr old American, I've slept under bridges and I've also been well off. I've experienced slot, but could never imagine going through what they have experienced. Even in bad poverty here is such a blessing compared to what people go through everyday in other places. I am thankful everyday. These stories make me cry Everytime and make me wish there was a way to help. They are very strong people with a great heart to keep surviving and making it out of their hell.

[@joeb1den114]

You are a bum. This kid is a survivor. There’s a huge difference. The main one being he isn’t a crackhead like you.

[@froggergypsy4596]

@@joeb1den114 I have worked all my life sir and how it's getting hit by a car and being in the hospital in a coma and not having no one to pay my bills because I'm in the hospital and become homeless make me a bum. you should know what you're talking about before you make assumptions I had 17 bones broke my lungs were torn open, so don't be calling people crackheads until you know the actual situation

[@kiko9382]

Me before: I want to be rich, famous etc. After I watch this. Me: I'm just thankful what I have, especially freedom and also I eating food twice a day and Most Important, I have family we're Complete. Thanks God😇🙏

[@kingtut7213]

Why doesn’t God just free these innocent children from the regime?

[@embobbisonembobbison1338]

@@kingtut7213 was that necessary?

[@allen8478]

@@kingtut7213 the time has not yet come

[@DebbiesSanctuary49]

@ShadowboyTV Tell me why do people always blame God? He gave us free will. Blame the people who commit the crimes. It amazes me how people don't give God a thought in the world unless something bad happens..then Bam! it's all His fault. God loves all men. We must make the stand for right. I pray that God blesses this young man greatly. It is good for videos like this to take down borders and let us get to know others better.

[@blackseoulite]

Debbie Fine You took the words right out of my brain. People are ignorant and want to blame God instead of blaming themselves. He did give us free will. It’s up to us to find our inner strength.

[@irabakri2662]

I watch Asian Boss for Pil Ju's and other refugees' stories. No one does it better than Asian Boss.

[@thearousedeunuch]

Ira Bakri Me too.

[@BJ-eh4ol]

Ira Bakri Very true! It's my favorite topic Asian boss covers since he does it so well and asks great questions.

[@f.j.9391]

Zurr J that because they are very interested themselves in what they are doing and want to know extra not that others dont but they look like they care in a way

[@irabakri2662]

Yes, I feel that Asian Boss do really care about this issues. You can see it in Steve's questions and how he interact with North Korean refugees (I don't like calling them defectors, because they are indeed escape to save their life from horrible situation).

[@1khomens301]

Ira Bakri h

[@tanisaand]

omg he worked like that when he was a child, and me when I am in my home and my mother told me to take out the garbage I was like ''this is bullshit''

[@momega7189]

This guy could write a book and I’d pay every cent.

[@TheMaster4534]

And be shone over with monetary concessions to lie in the book for the sake of exaggeration. That's what happened with Yeonmi Park and Shin Dong-hyeuk

[@seorin__]

@@TheMaster4534 why tf would they lie idiot

[@jadedmind7634]

His story is so humbling. All he wanted was eggs and rice and freedom and his mom. He is such a sweet person who just wants to help others and that’s beautiful. When he said how sorry he was about the girl, that killed me. I’m sure she knows how sorry you are. I wish we all did more as a society to help everyone everywhere.

[@vivekshah9680]

This story is gold.And this guy is too brave.

[@andrei_flo_]

yuh

[@DABUNGINATOR]

I’m confused about the part where he acted unconscious, and the guys beat everyone up. What’s up with that?

[@reveerys]

@@DABUNGINATOR he acted unconscious to avoid the beatings and since he had to be held up by two other people they just decided to leave him on the side and take care of the others instead.. honestly he is incredibly brave i cant even begin to imagine how i would've coped in such a situation

[@DABUNGINATOR]

Seok-ccessful Army What kind of messed up thoughts go through those guards heads? “Since the kid is unconscious, let’s beat everyone in the bus!”

[@lillylazer429]

He sure is. He should play the lottery

[@sgx2380]

I wish someone could make a film about his life. Inspiring young man

[@saffronscent4297]

There was a Korean Movie "Crossing" or 크로싱. About the boy tried to escape from North Korea. Quite similar with his story, tried to cross the river, get cought, put in prison, his girl-friend died in front of him, pretend to be Chinese boy. You should watch

[@KatherineUribe-1]

No one born in the U.S. have the faintest clue what that man has been through. Made me cry several times.

[@violetsparkles5453]

Mobile Terminaluser did the racist racism make you write repetitively repetitive things too?

[@violetsparkles5453]

@melanatedbri Also, I don't wanna make this a pissing contest on which race has it worse or whatever, but bear in mind we are talking about North Koreans. Where listening to Red Hot Chili Peppers is punishable by death. Just saying.

[@zwickzack]

Most of America is about as dumb as it gets.

[@j.p.holiday8899]

That is the one of most generalized statements you could make. How unfair of you to say that. There is sex trafficking in the United States as well as the whole world, children beaten abused and starved by people who they think love them. Don't you dare walk around this world spouting that nonsense, it's exactly how all of these problems start. I'm from the USA and like every place it isn't perfect, but there are so many people I've met here, SO many, they care about a lot of people whoever they may be. Shame on you, I hope you're a young teenager so at least there's some excuse for what you said.

[@JS-tr2xi]

You're forgetting about African slaves born on US soil

[@BeeDingaling]

His story in the orphanage with three final moments of that little girls life is heartbreaking. It made me cry, so real, so raw

[@AtlanteanAngel]

For visitors reading your comment, her story starts at 2:25

[@KA21601]

Someone should make a film about his story.

[@user-cp3ju2fz4z]

There are already a lot of movies specially Kdrama about this theme, there is also a story where a man falls in love with a North Korean Girl in the end of the movie he travels to North Korea to tell everyone that he loves her and to get her back. Descendants of the Sun Blow Breeze As One (movie)

[@lillylazer429]

@@user-cp3ju2fz4z Thanks I think I'm going to watch some of them. Have you seen Midnight Train? About a man who gets arrested for drugs I forget where so he's put in a terrible prison who fakes a mental illness to get taken to an Asylum. He eventually plans his escape into Greece. Really good movie

[@horizonrising3216]

I don't think it should be just anyone. Let it be a korean whose gotten approval from Pil Ju himself. There's too many greedy people in this world who would take his story and market it as their own.

[@devinamulya6074]

Agree!! Film abt him

[@roxi2798]

Lilly Lazer thanks for the suggestions, I’m going to check them out also.

[@lilytran1710]

His life should be made into a movie, man! That is such a great strength and determination. I can't imagine myself in such situations. Admirable man!

[@321thach]

The Lily T there are million of us Asian American experience worst then him. Go google the Vietnam War refugees n the Khmer Rouge Killing Field of Cambodia

[@BananaWonYoo]

321thach by acknowledging one individual's struggle, you're not disregarding the struggles of other people. It's not right to compare and compete who had it worse. What's important is to acknowledge the struggle they all went and hope for better lives.

[@justarandompersonthatexist7178]

his life should be made into a movie and show those spoiled brats that complain 24/7 how lucky they are

[@macherry2360]

The Lily T yeah instead of a book it should really made into a movie

[@davidtriune8028]

if not a movie, at least a video game. lol

[@przygocki]

How petty all my biggest problems seem to me right now. I wish this moment of enlightenment wouldn't go away.

[@EpicIntegral]

And I thought my life with schizophrenia was bad. It’s sometimes hard to find inspiration to live but this guy made me cry like hell. God bless him.

[@mysterygirl30011]

You need deliverance in the name of Jesus. Pastor Robert Clancy has prayers about this on his channel

[@AlexanderThaBlessed]

Bro give this man a fucking medal because he's a damn TROOPER

[@cilanatroisbetterthanparsley]

Wow, "Yeah I just escaped starvation and I still can get the death penalty if I stay around for longer, but yeah of course we can drop you off at work first." That really got me

[@violetsparkles5453]

Like wow

[@ANT1FRAG1LE]

If there is a book about this guy’s life story i would definitely buy it

[@Ipoopedinurboot]

The mere fact they say “escaped North Korea” speaks volumes. My heart breaker for those who aren’t able to get out.

[@aldisuchti924]

"So I basically had to stay alive until she came back." This is so not okay. He just 'basically' had to stay alive? This is messed up, many people have to wait for someone to come back but it's scary that some of them could really die any moment

[@pijn2370]

l a u r en loyalty.

[@sjaanw8305]

l a u r e n omg lauren wtf hey this has never happened to me before

[@blafoon93]

This is a reoccurring theme when you listen to the stories of young defectors. You should listen to the stories that some parents that fled North Korea tell. They are harder to find and some of them are so extreme it boggles my mind how that person can still be in a somewhat 'normal' mental state.

[@georgets5669]

My respects to this guys.He's my hero.even tho he has hemophilia and lived under an evil regime and stepfather he had and as i can see still has such a passion for life .Kudos to him.i hope he 'll have a good life and a great future!!

[@cy7632]

I watched his previous interview before watching this video.I think he is really at expressing himself and he is a good storyteller. I can feel his sincerity when he talked about his story(some ppl like to exaggerate the situation).He can be a good teacher or public speaker. In the last interview,he said he ever thought of committed suicide because he couldn’t see a future of himself in the competitive world of South Korea.But he got over it and now trying to help ppl who has suicidal thoughts.His story is truly inspiring.I wish him all the best in his life!

[@joeb1den114]

Shut up..

[@georgef1936]

His only birthday wish at 17 was to have a bowl of white rice with egg, that he'd never had before...damn..it is unfathomable what this guy endured

[@ronaldreed7698]

Omg, I'm a grown a ss man who has seen much in my 63 years but I wept during parts of this interview. I so wish I could do something.

[@lofturhjalmarsson295]

wonder if not buying anything from china would help , if many do it

[@jokerofmorocco]

@@lofturhjalmarsson295 How would that help? So Chinese people can also suffer like North Koreans?

[@TheXuism]

@@lofturhjalmarsson295 It will not help, I am a Chinese, I feel that and I wept too. MAKE YOUR VOICE FOR THE FREEDOM

[@Terrus_38]

How could you be in SS if you are 63/64 years old?

[@heyfabbiano]

@@Terrus_38 He meant to say a grown ass man. Not to imply he was in the SS.

[@Adamexe-cd8ly]

this man is very inspiring

[@tallll70]

r u a virus? haha ...cool name

[@neazenzen372]

I live in sweden and I'm 23 years old. This man is so brave. North Korea defectors are so inspiring. It makes our problems seem.. Not easier, but more possible to overcome. If you can do all of that and survive, so can we with our problems. I hope you have a long, happy and free life man. Love from sweden ❤️

[@janetblanc7658]

What a wonderful young man. Where did he find the courage to keep fighting? I'm so glad he is now safe and free and I wish him lifelong happiness, good health, prosperity and above all security.

[@binkao2938]

This guy. I just want to hug him and feed him yummy food for the rest of his life and try to make it all better. Mommy too. Arghhh. My heart breaks for all those innocent people stuck in North Korea. I'm really quite shocked at how compassionate and cheerful these people seem even after having to live through hell like that and witnessing all those executions etc. I would have imagined conditions like that made people hardened and cold or something. That couldn't be more wrong.

[@lillylazer429]

Well said. The ppl are treated so horribly. The Leader and elite are only treated well and the regular folks barely have any food, are taught that Americans are evil, are forced to say North Korea is the best country and show undying love for thier leaders..They have no freedoms. They can't criticize thier Leaders. They cant voice their opinions. They are in fear. If a person is in trouble, The whole family is as well. Such a grim dark place.

[@nonhlanhlazulu9629]

koreans r really good hearted ppl

[@kelpfries6169]

Since they lived such a life like hell, I think that once they finally escape, they don’t want to spend their newfound freedom on feeling like that anymore. Instead they’re finding happiness and positivity about things they weren’t granted when they were in North Korea. Man, I wanna be able to give them all a hug

[@christinedowd1820]

No North Korean people are very positive, kind and friendly. Even if they have nothing they share with others. They are very pure of heart even though they have suffered so much. They are better than Seoul people. Please try to understand them.

[@newlywedbeth]

Not only are they kind and loving, but they have a keen insight into Western people. They find it interesting that we are so unhappy and filled with stress over material possessions. Even in their struggles and extreme poverty they are a happy people. They implied that they didn't come for the material wealth, but for the freedom.

[@sigangelsglobal]

The little girl on his story...I feel so bad for her... ㅠ.ㅠ

[@KarolynHerreraBookEditor]

Me too. One thing I know is that Jesus will remember all of the innocent children on judgement day.

[@Dylems]

@@KarolynHerreraBookEditor Do you really think Koreans believe in Jesus ? lmao

[@cantthinkofaname2167]

@@Dylems yes. South koreans but maybe not north

[@megawarpig3401]

@@KarolynHerreraBookEditor No, it won't, it doesn's exist. That girl died there and that's the end. Just accept it.

[@danielpark6068]

oxygenlife yes, unfortunately for your uneducated self you wouldn’t know but, South Koreans have one of the largest christian communities around the world.

[@ArinaMint]

I’m from Russia and this story brought me to tears. I don’t remember when I cry last time. This story is heartbreaking and help you understand how good is your country

[@dreamdancer84]

Has he been reunited with his mum now? His story is simply amazing, he inspires people from all over the world who're experiencing hardships, not just North Koreans.

[@shirosin7578]

yus he is! he graduated in south korea, and his mom is with him there :) my source is his instagram.

[@thotcow8527]

this is heartbreaking. honestly, alot of people *hate* north Koreans for what the media puts up. but, ,alot of the people are suffering and need help. I don't hate the citizens of North Korea.

[@zack3158]

sad kitten they don't hate the people they hate the leader

[@oviiembem6302]

They have the government not the citizens.

[@saletteyang]

We all hate the system and the government that make the people suffer :(

[@Gabriel-rb5er]

we all hate that one dictator the whole world knows about

[@LoinkLoink]

No one hates the citizens, because we all know that they're the victims of an inhumane government and leader.

[@lucasthehuman9069]

Thanks for sharing new perspective, your videos always makes me realize how big the world is.

[@MariahFan09]

How big the world is? You should be realizing more than that.

[@jennychiem5807]

I would like to continue your comment :)) ...How big the world is and how little we know about it.

[@fayes.3538]

Jenny chiem true 😭

[@LetsBeHuman]

and how blessed we are

[@LS__14]

WE NEED an update on this man. What a life he has lived.

[@kingofcups1063]

I watched “What North Koreans Think of America” yesterday and was really impressed by how well spoken this young man is and his ability to relate his experiences in each country to the other, as well as going into the mind set of North Koreans, based on what the regime demands of them, to explain the difference in how they behave publicly and think privately. So when I saw this video today, I had to watch! Although the stories of each successful North Korean defector are different, they all seem to share one common trait-the resolution to reach freedom or die trying. Sadly, there are stories that will never be known because of the latter result. In this video I was moved by the emotion he had while talking about the death of the girl he’d befriended and the treatment of his mother during her ‘interrogation’. These are obviously things he’d rather not revisit, but willing does in order to let the rest of the world know the truth about life in North Korea. But what an amazing young man to laugh while discussing his stepfather’s role in their capture, how he got away from him again, his recapture by the informant, and interrogation by the Chinese officials. He certainly understands the importance that not dwelling on what might have been and letting go of what no longer matters has in living a life of contentment and inner peace. And what physical and inner strength he must have to make his second and third escape while suffering from the effects of hemophilia on his knee! You are an incredible man Pil-Ju. Is it a coincidence that I came across this video on your birthday? I think not! Happy birthday, and may you continue to find success and spiritual growth throughout your life!

[@abadezaxx4894]

"Basically, i was just waiting to die." 😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@sarabethhelsel4454]

EMOJI POLICE, PUT YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR!

[@mew6711]

Not funny, he was 12 years old and starving (about to die), and without food, they become hopeless... his quote was not funny

[@najibali2133]

@@mew6711 I think she’s using the emoji as a cry and not a laugh

[@abadezaxx4894]

@@mew6711 im sorry if u misunderstood. it's crying emoji tho.

[@mirellavuorinen7439]

This man is such an inspiration, I feel incredibly grateful that I got to meet him this summer! He participated in a project in SK that I was a part of, and I instantly recognized him as I had seen Asian Boss' previous interviews with him! 😆 Even the way he greeted me when I first approached him was so happy and cheerful! During the few days we worked together in the team we had so many fun conversations. He was very curious about my home country and he was altogether so nice, constantly smiling and laughing ❤ It is so beyond me to think about all the harsh, inhuman conditions and all the other hardships he has gone through in his past, yet he still manages to be such a genuinely happy person. It has taught me a lot, and thinking about his attitude towards life will also help me be a better and more grateful person! Thank you so much Pilju for speaking about such a difficult topic, you're inspiring so many people with your braveness! I am so glad that things are okay for you now 😊 Sending you lots of love from Finland, let's meet again some day ❤

[@nimkal]

I think his mother loving him despite all the harsh times made all the difference in the world to him and why he still has some happiness.

[@PJOh]

I am a Korean=American who lived in Finland for two years while working towards my MA in Education. It is by far the best country I've ever experienced among the 5 countries I have lived in. Some of the most sincere and trustworthy people I know as well. I am sure Pilju would have been ecstatic to have visited your country.

[@maryknight3405]

What an inspiring story. Stuck in the house during the COVID outbreak and ran across this video. I hope he is living a good life and can do what he aspires to. His harrowing tale was heartbreaking so i am glad that he is living free now and can enjoy all the blessings he so richly deserves.

[@poppyseed5270]

For the love of God, can someone please interview his mum? I'm dying to know what happened to her!

[@randomweirdo25]

I heard in another comment that she passed away.

[@NN-kg1ur]

same :/

[@AsianBoss]

Belated Happy Birthday, Pil-Ju! Pil-Ju was briefly reunited with his mom in China until she herself got caught and sent back to North Korea two more times. If possible, we will try to cover her story in a separate video. CORRECTION: During the North Korean famine, more than 3 MILLION people died of starvation, as opposed to 300,000. Sorry for the typo, everybody!

[@OnniBuchtProductions]

Happy b-day

[@Aki-gb8gm]

Asian Boss Happy Birthday!

[@RyanJoshua]

Happy birthday! ^^

[@jktm7785]

Happy birthday ❤❤❤ thank you for sharing your stories with us, you're a strong person hope you'll only be happy from now on

[@ghoulish4you.]

Happy Belated Birthday Pil-Ju!

[@vidit9024]

He laughed at his hardships. He is a real hero

[@chxndeul7861]

I'm watching this on August 8th, it's going to be his birthday soon and I only hope he's doing ok. He's been such a strong man

[@rayne2149]

"I had already experienced a lifestyle I thought was impossible." :(((

[@martinc.720]

That's what stuck out for me as well. Calling a bowl of rice and an egg a "lifestyle" really shows how little he had at the time.

[@ximichu4366]

Oh god... it breaks my heart when he tries to hold back the tears... he is so strong. I just wish him all the best!

[@jimmydinerobro]

Through all his hard ship still a smile on his face. Many great people in this world

[@annabellemartinez2730]

His life has been hard. I cant imagine what he's been through since he was a child. I have no right to complain about life after watching this. I wish I could help him. I wish he and his family are doing well now. I hope and pray that moving forward his life becomes better and better. God bless him.

[@amandaturner8928]

What a wonderful brave, humble man. May God bless him and keep him safe always. I would love to know how he is getting along now.

[@brendamarcus4405]

I wish I could give him a hug. Such a sweet human being even after all he’s been through. I’m American so I can’t even imagine it.

[@Preppy4eva.]

I agree

[@ryoumensukuna9081]

CHINA IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS IF HE COULD ADOPT THESE NK AS SK DID THE LIFE OF NK WOULD BE BETTER

[@blinkheart8785]

Today is August 11, I wish him a happy birthday and a long peaceful life. 🙏🏽

[@lovelyc1525]

This young man has shown so much courage, in the midst of all his hardship. He and his mother deserve peace and happiness. Happy early Birthday Pil-Ju! May your day be filled with everything your heart desires.

[@jnieswartz4878]

I’m so proud of this young man! I pray he has a incredibly wonderful and happy life.

[@user-bm2dg1kd6e]

As a Chinese I feel sorry about what Chinese people might done to him.If I were that men i will try my best to help them.

[@HotPepperLala]

Yet it was also the Chinese Soldiers who saved his life.

[@gemdoll4684]

I can't believe the government pays for reports of runaways. That gives people the incentive to report. Otherwise no money no one cares.

[@GO-gh2cp]

王汉林 there are good, and bad people in every country and religion.

[@baqikenny]

well as soldiers at the sino-noth-korean border, you are also under commands of high diplomatic pressure from your superiors(corrupted or not, still superiors), so certain procedures are just cold-blooded and brutal, but if those group of soldiers did that at the end, it means they are still decently mindful people, chose to help out as soon as the diplomatic situation turn to a gray area. Though you can't expect them to be helping him like helping him hiding and escaping lol, that will compromise their military careers as well as personal ones lol. Those are the reality, they did what they can, and the guy had all the good luck he could possibly had, as well as the bad ones, still alive and breathing? well ok then he is.

[@sruthi671]

Same. I would immediately let them into my home and organise a trip to get out of China as soon as possible

[@Juheesung]

Feeling so guilty and ashamed as a Korean citizen. South Korea and North Korea are not a different country. We share same blood same language and same history but now only NK people are suffering from starvation and violence. It makes no sense at all. I'm so sad that I can't do anything for them.

[@nomore__5372]

Juhee Sung actually we can do something for them , there is a site , where can you save so many North Koreans in China

[@iilliilliilliilliillii]

Well South Korea and North Korea ARE different countries wth

[@pikachubread]

what site?

[@nomore__5372]

lemon the site is liberty in north korea

[@mehwishmehmood5332]

North and south Korea aren't different countries?

[@synergy9853]

As a teenager from South Korea, who moved to many countries, this story made me realize that the problems I had like adapting to new countries weren’t even a problem after I heard this story. It also made me even more motivated to live a better life and try help people in need. Thank you so much to Asian Boss for making this interview possible and also huge thank you to Kim Pil- Ju for telling us this extraordinary story! I wish more and more people can feel motivated through this story and not give up in life just like Kim Pil- Ju did.

[@nomore__5372]

Seeing this video, I understand that North Koreans are so brave and strong

[@ykuk1380]

hoda bzn north koreans put their lives for freedom and for better life. With all the difficulties and barriers between the two koreans, we are now living together and trying to understand each other better. Bless the north koreans as they are settling so well in south korea, a completely different society with so many challenges. As a south Korean, I'm so proud of them living better lives in south korea with hard work ethics and strong mentality and I learn that we are really the same people. After all, we are not so different as we think after 70 years apart.

[@nomore__5372]

ykuk wow.. So beautiful comment. I'm happy there are so many south koreans who helps north korean defectors.

[@jinthehanakji2864]

hoda sara I agree. They do their very best to survive a cruel nation that refuses to offer them freedom. I'm glad people like you are actively seeing the picture and understanding their pain. We should all be aware of this current situation, asap. I'm even thinking of donating money to people in NK so they could try to seek their bright futures. Sad thing is, the government might take the money away from me and use it for military purposes. That's a shame. I truly hope those people live a life not to be filthy rich or robberbarrens, but truly successful and happy. Remember folks, money can't buy you happiness all the time.

[@Amerax01]

his story is very inspiring, he is so brave. It's so hard to imagine that people in the 21st century actually live in those conditions. But I was wondering, isn't it dangerous for North Korean defectors to tell their story publicly ?

[@808INFantry11X]

Amera01 yes it is but in South Korea and sometimes the United States and North America region they are in relative safety but they can't trust going to China because China will detain them and send them back

[@thearousedeunuch]

I agree. Of course it is more dangerous than staying quiet about it, but I think that the DPRK government has bigger issues to worry about at this point than a couple of reports.

[@lys_0141]

I was wondering the same thing! How is their safety guaranteed?

[@rebeccawalton4862]

I think because he has no family in North Korea (assuming his mum managed to stay in China without getting caught and then go to SK with him) and he's under the protection of the South Korean government he's relatively safe because NK can't actually get to him in any way

[@GlitchPredator]

Rebecca Walton unless he ever goes back to china

[@tamlee6904]

Can’t watch without crying, my heart breaks for him and all that has suffer like this! Makes you thankful for your freedom! Hope all will go well with him!

[@quai7865]

I hope Pil-ju's mom is also in South Korea and doing well.

[@minjaechoi6001]

Quai78 Shes in Canada

[@quai7865]

Min Jae Choi thank you very much for your reply. Good to hear that!

[@jenny-ro6gm]

@@minjaechoi6001 how do you know?

[@shirosin7578]

@@jenny-ro6gm hes lying lmao, shes in south korea. check his instagram. he graduated in the south, with his mom near him :)

[@Fenrir214]

@@shirosin7578 maybe now but 3 years ago she was in Canada, he said so in a different interview.

[@OzzyskylerTheGreat]

"So why'd you escape North Korea?" "For the rice and fried eggs.."

[@lamarsmith9254]

For something so simple to us but not to them. It's just sad

[@weeabooshunter4759]

They escaped to watch Anime

[@marsbars16]

Skyler Bicknell hell yeah! I totally recommend trying some rice with a fried egg over it. Super delicious. Like in Asian cooking, rice is a staple in Spanish cooking so we eat it more often than not. And lemme tell you, it's bomb with a fried egg over it! Super comforting too lol

[@emilyjohnson6096]

Mαяsbαяs ya especially when ur starving to death. Literally.

[@SugaSwag]

I will never eat it the same way again

[@shirosin7578]

hi guys :) hes with his mom now. as seen on his instagram. a graduation pic they made in south korea.

[@shirosin7578]

@@ceciliatran8058 pilju_kim

[@menardarambulo5085]

Each time I hear his story, I get emotional too. I admire this man, inspiriational.

[@baiqing]

Wow the Chinese soldiers just left knowing that he hid away

[@kosa86]

I would have done the same.

[@Ajm833]

They were helping him

[@itsmell89]

Viewerisland - VBQL kuddos to those soldire

[@jeshan0659]

Kudos to those soldiers!

[@appleexposed4404]

He prayed to God right before that.

[@SunsetRailMultimedia]

This guy should write a book about his life in North Korea.

[@sarahcross2631]

Wow what a powerful testimony of perseverance and strength! I truly admire this man and I hope life gives him the happiness he deserves. Thank you Asian boss for sharing stories like Pil-Ju’s. I wish he had social media so I could write and tell him how much his life story touched me heart and soul.

[@RxLifestyleVitalism]

Thank you thank you! I deeply appreciate the work you are doing and the incredibly strong, courageous defectors like this gentleman. The strength to both endure and share these experiences will be forever remembered. Thank you, many blessings

[@natalielisk3311]

Happy Birthday!! Thank you so much for sharing your life with us !!! You are so strong !! God Bless you!!!

[@Preuen-zs1fz]

Natalie Lisk thanks

[@ChrisJohnstonMusic]

makes my problems feel like shit...

[@dj4123]

What an amazing story! A tale of incredible courage and determination and despite all he has been through, this young man still has the most beautiful smile. Many of us will just complain and whine about some troubles in our lives but Pil-Ju never complains. He just keeps going and still appreciates the good in his story.

[@jonapotsx03]

Thank you for sharing your life story. It really inspired me and really made me think that my problems and struggles are nothing compared to what you had experienced. Keep on fighting!

[@candace6611]

The humiliation and hardships people are suffering is heartbreaking. Pil-Ju's resilience inspires me. He had to endure so much, and yet in this interview he smiling and being sincere in telling his story, wishing to help other people. I was surprised when he said that he hopes his story will help others use it as motivation for their own lives, because that reflects how selfless and giving he is. If I was in his place, I feel like I would be resentful of my past. I'm sure he is too but he seems at peace. I'm really thankful that he shared his story, and I can definitely learn from how he kept going even when his life must have been shattering. HE IS A NOBLE PERSON.

[@mots_7jin721]

Bts fan

[@mikeygoodboi]

What a warm young man he is. I am so glad he survived. Glad he escaped the hell hole NK is.

[@funkyblanket15]

This is such a memorable interview and the one you had with the single dad and his daughter. Thank you for producing such evocative, stories about human kind.

[@kaithongsavanh3649]

As I hear him tell his story all I can think of is how soon this can be made into a movie and shared with the world. Tragic, heartbreaking yet still with hope and the strength of the human spirit.

[@annakatharinasponagel4630]

He's so precious and his story really made me realize how lucky I am. I almost feel ashamed that there are some days I don't see the value of everything around me