The first thing I think of when I think of James is perseverance. James’s background and the things he has overcome is unlike any other person. This shows in his character and in everything he does.

– James’s college pastor

Meet James

While James waited for his refugee status to be processed in the United States, his eyes were opened while reading books on religion, philosophy, and theology. Although he was never particularly interested in his studies in North Korea, this exposure to radically new ideas and perspectives ignited a deep passion in him. He later realized this waiting period was a turning point that shaped his decision to study the Bible, learn English, and seek a future in the United States. James’s encounter with Jesus at this time was a catalyst for reflection on the hardships he had run up against as he realized a greater plan for his life was unfolding.

Several years earlier, James heard from a friend who had escaped to South Korea about the many opportunities in the “outside” world. After discussion with his parents, James made the difficult and life-altering journey for freedom on his own. He suffered through capture, repatriation, imprisonment, before seizing a second—and ultimately successful—attempt to escape. James was one of the very few to arrive in the U.S. shortly after the Covid-19 pandemic. Like many North Korean refugees, James has refrained from reaching out to his parents in North Korea to avoid putting them in any danger, and this separation weighs very heavily on his heart.

James is still deciding on a concrete plan for future career path, but knows he wants to study philosophy or theology. He is eagerly absorbing all the opportunities to learn and grow with the diligence, vision for community building, and purpose needed to serve fellow refugees and others in need. In addition to maintaining a 4.0 GPA and working on the side to support himself, James is an active member of his church, participating in the choir, kitchen ministry, morning prayer, and various other commitments.

Journey with James as he blazes a new path forward, uncovering God’s plans for his life and those of the many people he will reach.

[Note: Given the compromising nature of revealing personally identifiable information of North Koreans, the above image has been chosen by James to represent his campaign.]

How Your Contribution Helps

Tuition Assistance: Your gift helps RISE Scholars more fully dedicate themselves to their studies by alleviating some financial burdens and responsibilities.
Books, Transportation, Rent, Fees, and Meals: Your gift helps to support the numerous other costs associated with daily life and health. Many refugees are on their own, without family or a robust community support system to lean on.
Encouragement: Your gift is deeply encouraging to our RISE Scholars receiving your support. The hope and confidence they gain as others come together to support them on their journeys is an immeasurable blessing.
Prayer: Your prayer support throughout the school year will help to provide care, protection, comfort, guidance, and open doors beyond any human control!

Ways to Support

Support a RISE Scholar who inspires you directly on their Givebutter campaign page.
Support the RISE Scholars program, which encompasses all base scholarships and program costs. Visit www.psaltnk.org/risescholars for more information!

PSALT NK

Founded in 2006, PSALT NK is a U.S. based 501(c)(3) non-profit Christian charity dedicated to the needs of North Korean refugees. PSALT's work includes addressing the educational needs of North Korean refugees through RISE (Resource Initiative to Support Education). RISE services include ELL and academic tutoring, college application and essay support, career mentorship, and live education-related webinars. The RISE Scholars scholarship program, launched in 2024, expands PSALT's effort to meet the education-related needs of the North Korean refugee community across the United States. (EIN: 03-0593240)

To learn more visit: www.psaltnk.org/rise.

Visit James at: www.psaltnk.org/risescholars/james

Journey with James

James has a vision for community building, and a strong sense of purpose to serve fellow refugees and others in need.