I want to show my parents and this nation, though I may never be able to pay back what I have gotten from them, I at least want to be able to do my part as a member of this society and help others achieve their dreams.

- Jin

Meet Jin

Jin was 11 years old when he arrived in the United States as a refugee from North Korea. After overcoming initial linguistic and social struggles, he found that he excelled in math and physics; he began to dream about joining the Air Force and pursuing a degree in engineering.

Jin’s initial hope to join the Air Force Academy was met with the barriers of a very late start in life, compounded by an unfamiliar and rigorous application process. A very dutiful and caring son, Jin also delayed pursuit of his dreams to assist his parents, who escaped with him from North Korea. Remaining determined to follow his dreams, Jin ultimately joined the Air Force and proudly served as an Avionics Maintainer. The bonds he created there, along with lessons learned in leadership and teamwork, were life-altering. One of his colleagues remembers his incredible resilience, determination, and compassionate heart, saying, “He is a driven and hardworking individual with a heart of gold. Jin’s compassion knows no bounds.” However, Jin’s continued pursuit was sadly cut short when he suffered a seizure, resulting in a surgery that would render him incapable of serving the rest of his term.

Just after recovering from his surgery, Jin quickly applied to community college to continue his studies in computer science. He does not want to lose any more precious time that this new life in the U.S. has offered him, and is steadfast in his desire to build a life that will allow him to give back to others. Jin recently transferred to a school that will help him pursue his computer science degree. His hope is to use all of his experiences—both challenges and successes—to make an impact in the world around him, and offer support and guidance to others in need.

Journey with Jin as he perseveres through each challenge with courage, determination, and compassion.

[Note: Given the compromising nature of revealing personally identifiable information of North Koreans, the above image has been chosen by Jin 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 Jin at: www.psaltnk.org/risescholars/jin

Journey with Jin

Jin is pursuing a computer science degree, using his experiences to make an impact in the world around him.