ContextHea-Woo is a North Korean who lived most of her life under the communist regime, where Christians face severe persecution. After her husband died in prison, she decided to flee the country in search of religious freedom. Her journey led her to attempt crossing the border into China, but she was captured and sent to a reeducation camp.
The TrialOn her second escape attempt, Hea-Woo crossed a river in the north and spent three months traveling during the harsh winter, moving every two to three days to avoid being reported. Upon reaching China, she was captured again and taken to a detention center where prisoners are interrogated before repatriation. There, she was placed in a cell with 35 women and, despite fear, held a silent worship with three other detainees, reciting Psalm 23 in a low voice.
Faith and OutcomeThe next day, all were sent back to North Korea. Hea-Woo encouraged the women not to deny Jesus, even in the face of persecution. Back in her country, she was arrested and subjected to humiliating body searches. Despite the hardships, her faith remained unshaken. Today, Hea-Woo lives in safety, but her identity and location are kept confidential to protect her.
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