North Korean defectors are in need of English teachers this summer. Native English speakers are being sought to teach elementary and middle school students at a Hana Center near Daecheong Subway Station in Seoul.
The Hana regional support centers help North Koreans continue to adjust to life in the south.
They are the next step in integrating refugees into life here after they finish the three month resettlement program at Hanawon ― which teaches new arrivals about the different culture, economic system and politics of the South.
The NGO Justice for North Korea is seeking the volunteers to teach defector kids English and give the children the chance to interact with foreigners. Anyone wishing to help should be available from 1―3 p.m. most or every Saturday between July 23 and the end of August.
The NGO, which supports NK refugees and campaigns for their rights, is also set to launch a series of awareness-raising street campaigns.
A Justice for North Korea volunteer talks at an event in Insadong earlier this year. (JFNK)
While the group has previously focused on campaigns in Insa-dong, it now intends to create small mobile teams to teach a younger audience about the plight of North Korean refugees.
The new groups will focus on already popular street performance areas in Seoul such as Hongdae to give performances with live instruments, dance teams and theatrical skits. A fledgling dance team is already in rehearsals to start street performances soon.
Volunteers are also being sought to talk to passers-by and hand out fliers while the acts go on.
JFNK is also holding an awareness day this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Anyang’s central park. A poster exhibit is to tell the true story of one refugee’s journey from North Korea to the South. Visitors can also watch a short video about North Korean refugees living here and write them letters of encouragement.
Anyone interested in teaching should email Arthur Choo on ajchoo1218@gmail.com, including a brief explanation of interest and availability.
Those wishing to help with street campaigns can contact Robert Lee at Englishlastyle@gmail.com.
By Kirsty Taylor (Kirstyt@heraldcorp.com)