“My dreams may seem ambitious or unrealistic to some, but the passion that first took root in my heart when I came to America remains a flame that has never gone out. It continues to motivate me to pursue my goals and serve others.”

- Paul

Meet Paul

Paul’s mother was born in North Korea, but he and his younger sibling were born and raised in China during her journey for survival. While they were still very young, his mother made the fateful decision to leave China with hopes that she and her children could someday thrive in safety.

Paul remembers the day they began a lengthy and unusual trip over mountains, crossing a river in a small boat, and hiding very quietly so as not to be shot. Toward the end of that journey he remembers falling asleep and waking up in a detention center for refugees. Although his mother’s goal was to reach the U.S., given the length of time they would have to wait in detention without a guarantee for acceptance, they first had to resettle in South Korea for the sake of their grandmother’s health and recovery. Years later he and his family were able to arrive in the U.S. where they have been working hard to survive, study, and build a new and hopeful future.

Paul is passionate about political science and international relations. He is very eager to learn as much as he can, enjoys discussing his perspectives, and seeks to gain new insights. Upon moving to the U.S. Paul realized this world is a complex place, and that every country has its own strengths and weaknesses.

This realization coupled with his own arduous journey sparked a deep curiosity and longing to understand how his experiences might add value to discussions surrounding world events. He pursues his current studies with purpose and conviction to use his past experiences and current education to make a difference in this world. While he is still on the path toward U.S. citizenship he proudly considers himself a Korean-American, and hopes to use his personal insights to positively impact the future of U.S.-Korea relations.

With this vision before him, Paul is also helping to care for his grandmother and younger brother, and is studying aviation maintenance which he views as a solid profession to help achieve financial stability. Although it is a practical element in his plan, he is fascinated by modern aviation and very thoughtful about the role of transportation technology. Though markedly different from his geopolitical interests, Paul also believes this career path will present him with new opportunities and relationships en route toward his long-term vision.

Journey with Paul as he passionately pursues practical goals and far-reaching dreams to help impact the world around him.

[Note: Given the compromising nature of revealing personally identifiable information of North Koreans, the above image was chosen by Paul 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 Paul at: www.psaltnk.org/risescholars/paul

Journey with Paul

Paul is studying aviation maintenance and international relations to develop practical skills while passionately pursuing a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped his journey.