Books About the North Korean Refugee Crisis Written by Crossing Borders
At Crossing Borders, our mission to care for North Korean refugees is informed by over two decades of presence on the front lines. The books written by our leadership serve as both memoirs and living testimonies of the resilience of the North Korean people and the transformative power of the Gospel in the midst of crisis.
These works provide an in-depth look at the internal and external journeys of the refugees we serve, offering readers a window into a world often hidden from public view.
A HARD FREEDOM
Author: Dan Chung, Co-founder & Executive Director
Publisher: Bloomsbury (acquired Rowman & Littlefield in 2024)
While the world often focuses on the dangerous logistics of the North Korean escape, Dan Chung’s debut book explores the "second escape"—the arduous journey toward psychological and spiritual healing for North Korean refugees.
Drawing on over 20 years of experience providing relief and counseling, Dan examines the deep-seated trauma observed in refugees who have survived dehumanization and betrayal. Moving beyond purely secular humanitarian frameworks, the book explores why the healing love of Jesus is the ultimate source of restoration for the brokenhearted.
Key Themes:
Trauma-Informed Ministry: Understanding the psychological scars of life in North Korea.
The Post-Escape Reality: Challenges faced by refugees in safe houses and new societies.
Faith in Action: How the Gospel provides a unique framework for healing that humanitarian aid alone cannot reach.
About the Author
Dan Chung
Dan was part of Crossing Borders original team and served as a volunteer for nine years. He became Executive Director in 2012. Dan helped to develop Crossing Borders into the non-profit it is today, making it capable of providing the funding and manpower to execute work in China and South Korea.
In addition to having been on the field with North Korean refugees personally, Dan is one of the foremost experts on the North Korean refugee crisis, with relationships with both organizations and scholars researching the ongoing developments of the Korean Peninsula. Dan’s book, A Hard Freedom: The Dreams and Trauma of North Korean Refugees, chronicles his insights and observations in his work with Crossing Borders.
For Church Groups & Organizations
Our books are often used by churches, small groups, missions committees, and human rights organizations to better understand how to pray for and support the North Korean people.
Bulk Orders: For church bookstores or conference resources, please contact us at hello@crossingbordersnk.org.
Speaking Engagements: To invite Dan Chung to speak at your church, event or conference regarding the themes of these books, please contact us at hello@crossingbordersnk.org and include details of your event.
