Categories: christianity
Date: 24 March 2009 11:29:38
North Korea
Languages: Korean
(Little aside before I even start! It is interesting that the Times Atlas of the World from which I find the information about the languages also lists the countries' religions. Christianity is not listed under North Korea - the reasons may become clear in my summary below).
Christianity was introduced to Korea by missionaries in the late 18th century. Despite a ban and persecution by the government, a hundred years later Korea had become one of the most Christianised countries in Asia. The northern half of the peninsula was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1945. Kim Il-Sung became president in 1948 and introduced the principle of Juche (self reliance). All religions were outlawed but a presence of Christians managed to remain.
Punishments range from fines to imprisonment and even execution (up to 400 a year). Many Christians are interned in prison camps which are notorious for brutal treatment and torture. It is illegal to own a Bible and much Christian activity has to be conducted in secret.
In spite of the hardships, it is believed (facts are difficult to come by) that the Church appears to be growing.