Kim Su-jin, a Keynote Speaker with Freedom Speakers International, speaking at an international school outside Seoul, Oct. 28, 2024. Courtesy of FSI

English has always intimidated me.

Whenever someone speaks to me in English, I feel overwhelmed. From the moment I set foot in South Korea after escaping from North Korea, the language felt unfamiliar and daunting.

In North Korea, I only learned the most basic English words —my proficiency barely reached the phonics level. At first, I convinced myself that knowing a few common phrases would be enough to get by, avoiding the reality of how essential English is. But as I pursued a more professional path in my field, I realized that English was a barrier I had to overcome.

Determined to improve, I sought out Freedom Speakers International (FSI), an organization dedicated to teaching English. I first learned about FSI in June 2024, and I was not only grateful but deeply moved by their efforts to help North Korean refugees strengthen their English skills and stand on the international stage. With FSI's support, I prepared my original English speech, practiced pronunciation with foreign volunteers (thank you Roger, Simmone, (another volunteer from the summer?) and Casey), and rehearsed my speech over 200 times.

After competing in FSI's 20th English Speech Contest last August in Seoul, I had the opportunity to deliver more speeches and participate in Q&A sessions with foreign travelers visiting Korea, as well as high school students at an international school.

Beyond winning an award, I was amazed that I could speak in English at all. It was a powerful moment to share my story — of risking my life to survive in North Korea and China, and of adapting to life in South Korea — with a global audience.

Through these experiences, my perspective began to change. I now feel a deep sense of purpose: to share my story of life in North Korea and the hardships I faced in China, to help others going through similar struggles, and to contribute to building a society free from suffering — one that moves toward the unification of Korea.

Over time, our struggles, life-threatening journeys, and ongoing efforts to raise awareness—along with those who choose to stand with us — will become part of history. I hope to continue growing and moving forward on this journey with FSI.

Kim Su-jin is a keynote speaker with Freedom Speakers International. This was translated from Korean to English by FSI co-founder Eunkoo Lee and edited for publication by FSI co-founder Casey Lartigue Jr.