The family I lost in North Korea. And the family I gained | Joseph Kim

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 มิ.ย. 2013
  • A refugee now living in the US, Joseph Kim tells the story of his life in North Korea during the famine years. He's begun to create a new life -- but he still searches for the family he lost.
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ความคิดเห็น • 2.4K

  • @singinggemini
    @singinggemini 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4837

    He said he doesn't want to say his message in Korean because he might tear up but I seriously started to cry as soon as he said "Noona" which means older sister in Korean....Oh God...

    • @sklxx7359
      @sklxx7359 7 ปีที่แล้ว +167

      me too ... that noona was so emotional ...

    • @roshijinx7766
      @roshijinx7766 7 ปีที่แล้ว +191

      i can't even imagine the sorrow he must have

    • @annfra3132
      @annfra3132 7 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      same here :(

    • @sayantantalukdar9883
      @sayantantalukdar9883 5 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      I couldn't hold back my tears when he said noona too

    • @bellasing2848
      @bellasing2848 4 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      honestly, I felt like that was very very personal and maybe they should have done it privately for his sake of trying to keep his composure, it was a good thing but seeing him struggle to talk broke my heart :(

  • @zhobinghomishah9823
    @zhobinghomishah9823 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3853

    "One chicken wing can change your life" Best.Quote.Ever

    • @jaeykim6371
      @jaeykim6371 9 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      Also agree

    • @ShadeWMD
      @ShadeWMD 9 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      That's a poignant epitaph if I've ever read one.

    • @Edible_Kittens
      @Edible_Kittens 9 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      A comment on youtube changed my perspective permanently

    • @alexmercer4917
      @alexmercer4917 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      KFC recommends chicken rather then burger.
      KFC says."Try our motherfawking chikun!.""Unlike Mc only burgers."

    • @ethanchou4906
      @ethanchou4906 7 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      High five for kfc! Anyone?

  • @abdulhameedmohdammed1053
    @abdulhameedmohdammed1053 4 ปีที่แล้ว +765

    “You can change someone’s life with even a smallest act of love”

  • @wwxx23
    @wwxx23 2 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    “I decided to cross during the day, bc i was still a kid and i was scared of the dark” 😭😭😭😭😭 my sweet child I’m already crying

  • @soniachauhan4459
    @soniachauhan4459 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2937

    "Hope is personal. Hope is something that no one can give it to you. You have to choose to believe in hope. You have to make it yourself." Hats off to this guy. RESPECT.

    • @terry2788
      @terry2788 6 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      He was raised in a poor environment as a child and lost all of his family member but still didn't give up hope and gained success over short period of time! It is absolutely amazing and inspiring. Therefore he has my respect :)

    • @OleDiaBole
      @OleDiaBole 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Now that is what i call masterpiece of propaganda.
      So disgusting to us whoo have diferent (uncensored) sources of information and actuly whent to that country.

    • @roibenzon9947
      @roibenzon9947 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      why were you thinking his grammar? just think the message of sadness, sacrifices and being orphan, he lost his entire family and does not even sure if his mother and sister still alive..

    • @zaradimple3980
      @zaradimple3980 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL

    • @nancynahnigoh3550
      @nancynahnigoh3550 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The word is not use , to believe it is must believe in hope cos it make you feel strong must believe

  • @SelenaLuvs1Direction
    @SelenaLuvs1Direction 7 ปีที่แล้ว +6106

    These stories make me ashamed of myself when I take the smallest things in my life for granted.

    • @moji96
      @moji96 7 ปีที่แล้ว +124

      take the ''i don't'' out of the sentence so it can make sense.

    • @minari9256
      @minari9256 7 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      oishii.t Aw me too

    • @spiritfired
      @spiritfired 7 ปีที่แล้ว +75

      Don't. His experience is not your experience. We all have our struggles in life.

    • @zoen7034
      @zoen7034 6 ปีที่แล้ว +60

      You're problems don't suddenly become invalid because someone has bigger ones.

    • @suvigyamishra4604
      @suvigyamishra4604 6 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      i feel the same bro.. funny that we annoy so many people for our own needs..

  • @annalisam9999
    @annalisam9999 3 ปีที่แล้ว +422

    I'm watching a lot of North Korean stories and I can't believe what's happening and how we are letting this happen. My heart breaks.

    • @violetsrayreikishop2
      @violetsrayreikishop2 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You'd think the world would've been invaded to free these people but Eisenhower thought threatening the regime would be enough but it made them obsessed with nuclear weapons he really messed up and every president since that has ignored them calling their nuclear program a sham when they knew this was happening for years the best to time to invade was the 90s when they stopped giving their people rations they had plenty of food but Kim father sold the rations because he wanted to put it nuclear power and he had citizens working overseas but took their checks without giving them a dime he even stopped giving his higher ranking people money while working them to death starving them too that's why so many detected around that time. Also the united states' south Korea was sending millions of dollars worth of food aide unchecked not knowing it wasn't going to the people until everything came out yet did nothing but hoped the people could topple the regime not knowing how it's set-up especially after Kim came to power he's an evil smart psychopath he placed people in pairs stop people from moving around and traveling to different countries and areas of North Korea and set up the system so that it's a paramyd type system and he's at the top anytime he's paranoid he knock off his team directly beneath him plus implemented nothing but brutality and fear making it almost impossible to topple him this is the worst I've ever seen in history it's worst than Hitler. Kim kills his own family and trusted people making everyone terrified of him he trust no one because his higher ranking people has to leave extended family and at least one child in north Korea if they travel making it impossible to run this why many people higher up was defected they were getting killed instead to save their families lives which still didn't work if he kill them for no reason than showing his absolute brutality their families die too and friends. I hope things change at least many NKs now are aware of their situation because they get illegal information so they will become more disgruntled. I dream about getting Kim Jong Un and taking him out of dropping a nuke on whatever building he's in because invasion means many innocent people will die because of him he makes them fight out of fear. This why some people that carry out hits he plan don't get severely punished because we know majority just have to or it's death for sure and the rest are brainwashed or pretending really good to save their lives. But his sister gotta go too execution publicly for both and the loyal ones who won't denounce him once he's caught. That's if this ends I truly hope so before his nuclear project is complete.

    • @eldenarchonofcinder2036
      @eldenarchonofcinder2036 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      North Korea has nukes, so if the U.S. tries to do anything about it, North Korea will nuke South Korea. So unfortunately there isn’t much we can do. 😔

    • @pnwadibie
      @pnwadibie ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Can't do nothing about that

    • @annalisam9999
      @annalisam9999 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@pnwadibie yeah

    • @marselona
      @marselona ปีที่แล้ว

      Its happening because north korea is ruled by a lunatic who will set off nuclear strikes even if u as much as breath near him.

  • @SleighJessi
    @SleighJessi 2 ปีที่แล้ว +237

    When he said “noona”, my heart broke. As an older sister who would do anything for my younger siblings, I really hope that his big sister is able to see him again so that she has the chance to know how well he has done for himself.

  • @karengrace6890
    @karengrace6890 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1612

    Wow he was only about 23 when he made this speech. What a loss of innocence in such short a time.

    • @karengrace6890
      @karengrace6890 8 ปีที่แล้ว +100

      Carrot Stiks I was saying that giving his speech at age 23, he had endured much hardship during his childhood and teenage years. He didn't lose his innocence at 23.

    • @Thirdi
      @Thirdi 8 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      thanks for clarifying your questionably worded comment lol

    • @karengrace6890
      @karengrace6890 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Carrot Stiks you're very welcome :-)

    • @violetgirl1996
      @violetgirl1996 8 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      i believe he has always kept it, somehow

    • @michaelstrahan2.0
      @michaelstrahan2.0 8 ปีที่แล้ว +34

      +Karen Grace Yes! He's so wise for his age, especially given what he's been through. I completely understand and agree with your original statement.

  • @robo2000nitro
    @robo2000nitro 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2357

    We joke and we laugh about N. Korea and its dictator, but do we really do anything to help these innocent people, who deserve a better life than the one they currently have?

    • @NightwolfSteve
      @NightwolfSteve 6 ปีที่แล้ว +76

      robo2000nitro the thing we can't help them. South Korea tries helping them by sending food with balloons but the government confiscates them.

    • @nomore__5372
      @nomore__5372 6 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      U can donate to libertyinnorth korea . U will Save so many north koreans.

    • @ari_jean
      @ari_jean 6 ปีที่แล้ว +50

      Actually there are a LOT of organizations that help North Koreans.
      People from SK even throw bottles with rice in the sea hoping smb will get in up in the North.
      It's also good to laugh at the system and the Kims, because it means we're not afraid. Whole world jokes at them and that surely makes them feel not so powerful and respected anymore, but pathetic.

    • @MrFenkins
      @MrFenkins 5 ปีที่แล้ว +29

      The only help North need is with killing their "supreme leader". Otherwise you are just going to send them food for the rest of your life.

    • @blowitoutyourcunt7675
      @blowitoutyourcunt7675 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@MrFenkins At least they will have a life! So many starve to death in the world from lack of while we die from compulsively over eating food with no nutritional value (McDonald's). If there is a god those of us who "suffer" from too much will be held accountable for not helping our fellow starving man...
      Cheers mate!

  • @vaishnavichandrika1259
    @vaishnavichandrika1259 3 ปีที่แล้ว +228

    I wish his mom and sister would find him . It was hard for me to hold up my tears.😭😭😭😭😭

    • @carleighalbright1417
      @carleighalbright1417 ปีที่แล้ว

      shut up little kid

    • @vaishnavichandrika1259
      @vaishnavichandrika1259 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@carleighalbright1417 What but-? Oh wait I forgot some people have mommy issues and their dad is still on the hunt for the milk 🙄🙄 Feel sorry man.

  • @DinkDonny
    @DinkDonny 6 ปีที่แล้ว +307

    "Can I also make a small message to my mum?"
    I hope, with all forces of good and love in this seemingly cruel world, that you reunite with your family.
    What an inspiration. X🌌

    • @mariahsmom9457
      @mariahsmom9457 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you for letting me be in this world. ❤😭❤😭❤😭

  • @orangeluce
    @orangeluce 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4309

    when he was talking about crossing the river and said that he did it in the daytime because he "was a child and still afraid of the dark" it really struck a chord oh my gosh.

    • @whytedaisesify
      @whytedaisesify 7 ปีที่แล้ว +218

      I agree, it hit me right it the gut. He was 16 at that time and refers to himself as a child. Most 16 year olds that I know refuses to acknowledge that they are still a child, let alone afraid of the dark and freely going places.

    • @thecritic1265
      @thecritic1265 7 ปีที่แล้ว +45

      +whytedaises well I am an exception then cos I am 15 and scared of the dark and being alone but the last one doesn't define me..
      It is indescribably awful.. I wish we could do something against but it is so risky.. idk I am just heart broken to hear his life story.

    • @veritascognitio5183
      @veritascognitio5183 7 ปีที่แล้ว +39

      +whytedaises Well its the cultural influence. In Eastern Asia, especially in China and Korea,if you're under 30, you're a child. For example, they will address you as Xiao "insert last name". Xiao meaning little. Even Kpop idols say "when I was very little" about when they were 16 and 17.

    • @whytedaisesify
      @whytedaisesify 7 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Veritas Cognitio
      Thank you for your info. I get that 16 and 17 are still considered young. Even those in the 20s as well. It's the understanding that when you are young, you don't know much. My parents are traditional so they did that to me all the time when I was a teenager. : )
      For the excerpt, I was talking about how teenagers in general like to refer to themselves as older/mature and does not want to be seen as a child anymore. What got to me is that he is in fact, a child still. That feeling as a child who think they can do it, but realize you can't because you're too young.

    • @Poptartsthatareplain101
      @Poptartsthatareplain101 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Lucy Drury man me too :(

  • @vikanronru5050
    @vikanronru5050 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4999

    Can we just take a moment to appreciate his grammar.

    • @michaelstrahan2.0
      @michaelstrahan2.0 8 ปีที่แล้ว +265

      +Vikan Ronru His English is PHENOMENAL!!!!

    • @leighdalugdog4735
      @leighdalugdog4735 8 ปีที่แล้ว +38

      Amazing!

    • @closhiva99
      @closhiva99 8 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      IKRR

    • @KuraSourTakanHour
      @KuraSourTakanHour 8 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      +Vikan Ronru Of course. They have several weeks to prepare and think of what to say before the talk

    • @vikanronru5050
      @vikanronru5050 8 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      +BLS. that proves what?

  • @yangchuyou2356
    @yangchuyou2356 6 ปีที่แล้ว +120

    "if you cant find me, ill look for you"
    Crying

  • @ChuuyaNakamura24
    @ChuuyaNakamura24 2 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    I was holding my tears till the moment he asked “Can i make a message to my mom too?”
    My tears are not stopping, My God...I just hope every North Korean refugee gets a wonderful life of freedom one day.

  • @josie9538
    @josie9538 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1864

    And here we are with people like the Kardashians all over the news instead of this.

    • @chaosandduality931
      @chaosandduality931 8 ปีที่แล้ว +81

      I know, right?! It makes me sick that nothing is done, that we just "eat" all the bullshit that media and mags feed us and just get on with our meaningless lifes still complain about our phones and stuff...

    • @joeyspencer7208
      @joeyspencer7208 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      +Barbara Wiborg live how you live and do what you earn

    • @martymcfly5423
      @martymcfly5423 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      It makes me sick that ungrateful Leftists waste all of our time with their ridiculous bullshit, while we could use that energy to help other people. Leftists are disgusting and make this world a much worse place

    • @bishwashghlan
      @bishwashghlan 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      So truuu 3 yrs late thoo

    • @thabilecynthia9127
      @thabilecynthia9127 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Yah big up to this Guy I respect the bravery he has&the Hope he kept..we need to hear more of this stories ..I'm touched

  • @annabananna789
    @annabananna789 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4626

    Oh, God. His message to his sister and mom was beautiful and heartbreaking. I hope he finds his family.

    • @jashu8666
      @jashu8666 7 ปีที่แล้ว +62

      Ann Nonato i cry on that

    • @suhailanaz
      @suhailanaz 6 ปีที่แล้ว +64

      Ann Legaspi I cried as soon as he said Nuna.

    • @infiniteexp7853
      @infiniteexp7853 4 ปีที่แล้ว +42

      They're probably not alive

    • @Lemons19902010
      @Lemons19902010 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      Yes! I felt his pain and earnest desire to be with his family! I pray that they will find each other!

    • @patryksolecki6758
      @patryksolecki6758 4 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      @Turbo_Turlet not necessarily. When you read his book you'll know that he doesn't have much of a family anymore. Also, his sister and mother could still live somewhere in China. When it comes to punishment, you are right, but they don't always punish everyone. His mother was caught twice in China and only she was punished.

  • @soopperson5953
    @soopperson5953 3 ปีที่แล้ว +101

    This guy has gone through so much and to be able to stand up and still speak up is absolutely amazing

  • @tpo6142
    @tpo6142 4 ปีที่แล้ว +76

    After reading his book, "Under The Same Sky"there was a reference to the group that aided in his escape from the DPRK. The groups name goes by LiNK or Liberty in North Korea. They also have a website which I promptly looked up and donated to their cause. The people in North Korea deserve a right to freedoms we take for granted, so pay their website a visit and give to their cause any way you can....The plight for the North Korean is so heartbreaking, and it seems Kim Jon Un has no desire to change the current regime... He can only be overthrown from within by the people of North Korea who yearn for freedom...God bless Joseph Kim (Kwan Jim) and hope he finds his sister, Bon Sook, soon...

  • @200eletide
    @200eletide 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2174

    I just want to say that this story made me realize how much pain my grandparents went through when they were younger. They are North Korean and escaped North Korea when the civil war started. They talk about the horrible dead bodies they've seen and the hunger they faced everyday on their journey to the south. They talk about how they survived by never giving up and having hope. I miss my grandpa who passed away 2 years ago. And I never got to thank him for his brave escape because that is the only reason I am alive today. So, grandpa, thank you for everything. And I miss you so much.

    • @ThinnkTwicce
      @ThinnkTwicce 9 ปีที่แล้ว +87

      Write down all their stories!!

    • @terry2788
      @terry2788 6 ปีที่แล้ว +32

      bark obama Thank you for sharing this inspirational story. P.S your grandparents are amazing :)

    • @OleDiaBole
      @OleDiaBole 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      America started that war you idiot.
      Ask your elders how many Coreans were kiled by American invasion on your now divided country, in both north and south.

    • @Timmering
      @Timmering 5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      bark obama Your grandparents are so brave. :) I’m glad you were born into a better world than thy were. And I’m glad they have the bravery and hope to escape that horrible place.

    • @christianmorales8978
      @christianmorales8978 4 ปีที่แล้ว +41

      Boris Bojanic You seriously have the audacity to say something like that who’s grandparents suffered and almost died because of that totalitarian regime? He isn’t even talking about America he’s talking about North Korea what’s your point you fucking idiot? North Korea started the war America joined in to help the south. People like you make me sick to my stomach.

  • @embercastillo7698
    @embercastillo7698 10 ปีที่แล้ว +453

    Guys, I feel so sick with myself. I complain about little things all the time, like my eggs are over cooked or I popped the yolk. I waste so much food. I never really thought about all the people who have no food and die of starvation while I eat a burger. I'm just here bawling because of how fortunate I am to not have been born on the "other side" (N.Korea) of S.Korea, or how I still have all my family members, or all the food in my fridge. Trust me, I'm a very fortunate person and I never really appreciated things till now. I think I can safely say videos like these make me see life in a new perspecitve. To not take things for granted, to not indulge so much with things I don't actually need.

    • @onelittleplum
      @onelittleplum 9 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      I know. I was literally sitting here fretting over which hideously overpriced Lululemon jacket I wanted to buy. UGH.

    • @terry2788
      @terry2788 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Ember Castillo I know that I'm late, but your comment helped me realized too! I'm such a fool, I just bawled my eyes over how sad this story is but didn't seem to take the message seriously. I am not in a very rich family, but I have all of them still alive, food and good education. I will try to appreciate all of it that has been given to me. Thank you :)

    • @NaturelDeese
      @NaturelDeese 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Omg yesss I'm angry I can't buy a home for my son I'm like wait you have a place you have food you have clothes not beaten to death. Scared to talk

    • @michelletomaino8311
      @michelletomaino8311 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I know I need to be thank ful for the the stuff that I have

  • @sadiakarim9666
    @sadiakarim9666 2 ปีที่แล้ว +79

    It's 2021, I just wanna know how he is now, and did he ever find his noona? I cried a bucket watching this and he is so strong. I wish him well. I hope the situation gets better in North Korea. I wish they would get international help.

  • @asdx88
    @asdx88 7 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    wow.... As a Korean, I feel deeply appreciated to his foster parents. Your act of love changed someone's life forever and that someone will also change many other's life.

  • @TinaSoup
    @TinaSoup 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1566

    i thought they were going to bring his sister on stage....

    • @TechnoForbes
      @TechnoForbes 8 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      me 2

    • @t3zny07
      @t3zny07 8 ปีที่แล้ว +73

      +yixing park me too.. that was so sad, this poor guy!! I really hope they find her and reunite them! How can we help to of that??

    • @ChubbyMonkeys
      @ChubbyMonkeys 8 ปีที่แล้ว +169

      +ali alghamdi It's sad if you consider the possibility that they never made it to China in the first place.

    • @TerryTheNewsGirl
      @TerryTheNewsGirl 8 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      +yixing park Funny....so did I..! That would have been perfect!!

    • @user-lw1lf8oy9p
      @user-lw1lf8oy9p 8 ปีที่แล้ว +33

      +yixing park maybe that was his hope..

  • @gizmogirlforever
    @gizmogirlforever 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3054

    Tried my best not to cry but failed

    • @abhinavmusic1138
      @abhinavmusic1138 7 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      Us Indians will never get out of our feelings. Same here but i didn't try to control it.

    • @kimtov3734
      @kimtov3734 7 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Kanu Priya Don't call me heartless but somehow I didn't cry?

    • @mohammedgharbiyah6566
      @mohammedgharbiyah6566 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Kim Tov I also didn't cry but for some people it can be a lot more meaningful and touching :)

    • @hughmungous4893
      @hughmungous4893 7 ปีที่แล้ว +51

      Kanu Priya I thought I made it but when he started addressing his sister and mother I lost it

    • @chichimeoww3405
      @chichimeoww3405 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Kanu Priya Same 😢 It is sad that people have 2 suffer like this 😧😦😡😢😣😳

  • @htyanhtyan7433
    @htyanhtyan7433 2 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    The most overwhelming talk I've ever watched. People who never meet like this adversity and difficulty will never understand the pain. That kind of agonizing feeling is terrible. Hope we all live in a peaceful world.

  • @Jess-yp9fo
    @Jess-yp9fo 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I literally just found out about him and his story 😭😭😭 it made me look at refugees hella differently. North Korea is SICK man i talk ish about the US but reading about NK makes me really grateful to be an American 😭 This guy is more than incredible. God bless him. Learning a new language....escaping a dictatorship..risking his life... Homelessness...losing his sis and mom and dad...At the age of 16... I have no words man.

  • @Fiilis1
    @Fiilis1 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2715

    Weirdest thing, when he says something with date, and i think, what i might have done that same day, and i've been had propably been drunk on some party while someone is escaping for hes life to get to live normal life. Damn..

    • @youdontneedtoreadthis
      @youdontneedtoreadthis 7 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      wow... i never thought of it that way...

    • @paolabenites7918
      @paolabenites7918 7 ปีที่แล้ว +57

      Same...I kept thinking what I might have been doing at that time...

    • @Fiilis1
      @Fiilis1 7 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      glad i'm not a lone with this thought =)

    • @ohsnap401
      @ohsnap401 7 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      omg true :(

    • @maiali5362
      @maiali5362 7 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      me too

  • @starcastically
    @starcastically 10 ปีที่แล้ว +576

    In case anyone is wondering: Adrian Hong, the man who appears at the end of Joseph's talk, is one of the co-founders of an organization that helped him called Liberty in North Korea. If you want to do something to help the North Korean people and make a real difference, please consider donating to their rescue efforts. I have done fundraising and awareness campaigns for LiNK for the better part of three years now, and they are an amazing organization staffed by incredible people whose hearts are too big to put into words. They do amazing work and I'm proud to associate with them. They've rescued almost 200 refugees and have funded the rescue of another 40+ in the last couple of months alone. They hope to fund another 40 by January. If Joseph's story inspires you to act, please consider helping them.

    • @L16htW4rr10r
      @L16htW4rr10r 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Thank you for the information...

    • @miray3242
      @miray3242 5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      I saw your comment few days ago and today I made a donation thanks to you. If I wouln’t saw this comment I would’t know about them so thanks.

    • @mina-zv1ov
      @mina-zv1ov 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Link pleasee

    • @15Patriot
      @15Patriot 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I first saw this story about Joseph a few years ago, have never forgotten about him, (now viewing it again in 2019, prompted by Trump's visit at DMZ with KJU).
      I always wondered how he is doing, whether it's possible to get an update from your organization on how Joseph is doing in life, and has he united with Mom and sister? Hope there is a happy ending.
      Please provide a link to your organization. Thank you.

    • @miray3242
      @miray3242 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      15Patriot you can make a donation from this link www.libertyinnorthkorea.org/

  • @tongl274
    @tongl274 4 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    When he said "thank you" at 11:00, I was wondering why there were still 3 minutes and 51 seconds left; I wasn't ready :(....

  • @reshathapa952
    @reshathapa952 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    His message to his family made me cry bro

  • @Purpleeyes92
    @Purpleeyes92 8 ปีที่แล้ว +427

    I feel extremely guilty when I compare my life with these people. Sometimes, we complain about unnecessary things when there are bigger issues in the world.

    • @Jess-yp9fo
      @Jess-yp9fo 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I was just complaining about the slow Wi-Fi connection 😭😭😭

    • @ShivamGupta-mb9vr
      @ShivamGupta-mb9vr 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That is human tendency... Nothing to blame or guilty about. It's inherent in us to want more

  • @oORawrRawrRawrOo
    @oORawrRawrRawrOo 9 ปีที่แล้ว +508

    When he was saying his message to his sister I just couldn't not cry

    • @billschoe43
      @billschoe43 9 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Agreed!!!

    • @eugeneparkerson8110
      @eugeneparkerson8110 9 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Izumi, I suppose you meant to say that you could not help crying and I felt the same way as well.

  • @blazingdevil19
    @blazingdevil19 5 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Such an amazing individual. As a person who was introduced to English language at his later teen years, his English is beyond good. From a F rated student back in NK to a Academic Excellence Award winner in US requires will, hard work and confidence .....well done brother. You have seen things in life as a child which even an adult shouldn't, you have been through times which are probably our worst nightmares.....but, you fought this through and am so happy to see you live a normal life now. Hearing your story gave me HOPE, made me realise that whatever petty issues/problems that we go through in life will end only if we decide to take our stand and act on it. Thank you brother....thank you for sharing your story with us. I really wish you reunite with your sister one day :) ................... Like i say..... "Keep your hope up high and your head down low".

  • @abhishekchakrabarty2930
    @abhishekchakrabarty2930 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I am crying now after hearing him

  • @Fucheeze
    @Fucheeze 9 ปีที่แล้ว +625

    WE NEED TO FIND HIS SISTER FOR HIM PLEASE

    • @terry2788
      @terry2788 6 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Feuch M I agree! Petition for support groups to find his sister (or any information at all). Sadly because I am considered underaged, I cannot help but I can still hope :) I hope Joseph finds his family soon God bless him 💕

    • @zuha1243
      @zuha1243 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      She maybe dead..

    • @flo_wds
      @flo_wds 5 ปีที่แล้ว +29

      Feuch M I hope more than anything that his mum and sister are still alive for him

    • @Jess-yp9fo
      @Jess-yp9fo 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Nah fr we the public need to get on this. Their was a tweet that went viral of a girl who shared a picture of herself and another girl when they were little kids. They met on a cruise I think and she wanted social media to help her find the girl (its been about a decade) and social media actually found the girl 😭😭😭😭😭 I hope this happens with his sister

    • @Berenice.O7
      @Berenice.O7 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Jess-yp9fo Instagram?

  • @afonsords
    @afonsords 8 ปีที่แล้ว +892

    ELLEN FIND HIS SISTER

    • @user-sf1cq3ip8c
      @user-sf1cq3ip8c 8 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      Ellen does anything for people to be happy and tears of joy

    • @orangepeech1952
      @orangepeech1952 8 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      omg so true!

  • @rumeysa.yildirim
    @rumeysa.yildirim 6 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    His message to his sister and his mather was heartbreaking 😢. I hope he finds his family.

  • @malcolm824
    @malcolm824 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I really appreciate this guy, and how open he is to talk about his past.

  • @mumbai3008
    @mumbai3008 9 ปีที่แล้ว +267

    I have seen the Berlin wall come down during my life and i hope to see Koreans united too.

    • @miccalito
      @miccalito 6 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      It will happen. Every year more and more north Koreans escape, and the ones that haven't are realizing whats actually is happening because of Kim jong un. They are smuggling films, news and cellphones in there. It's only a matter of time before Kimmy is assassinated or the people rebels.

    • @kabashila2606
      @kabashila2606 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      GOD BLESS U!

    • @Jess-yp9fo
      @Jess-yp9fo 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@miccalito that won't be for a loooong time tbh. We still have racism in the US and complete ignorance about minoritys bc we arent taught about them in school. Only taught what they wanted us to know. Now that more and more people are becoming aware via social media we still have debates about certain cultural issues. So imagine the millions in NK waking up without the freedom of the internet or Google like how we have in the West. It's gonna be tough but I pray they'll get there one day

    • @michaellovely6601
      @michaellovely6601 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@miccalito I can't wait for the "Korean Spring." Hopefully, it won't be as violent as the Arab Spring.

  • @AtarashiNOhi
    @AtarashiNOhi 10 ปีที่แล้ว +832

    Oh god, I can't hold back my tears anymore! The message to his sister and his mother just broke my heart. I hope that he and many others can reunite with their families.

    • @phoebej8264
      @phoebej8264 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      they straight up abandoned him thou.....

    • @MultiGames4You
      @MultiGames4You 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Feels bad man

    • @alessiavenaruzzospataro7222
      @alessiavenaruzzospataro7222 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      pp XVIII qq that's not necessary! I don't know what to think about his mother, but I'm sure that his sister tried really hard and was really hoping to come back and bring him food... I know some other refugees who's parents used to travel back and forth between North Korea and China to bring food to their children, until they reached a point where they decided to escape... But I also know many refugees who's parents or other relatives tried to do the same but got caught in China... For example, when Yeonmi Park her parents travelled to China they received a treatment that none of them was expecting, and for a long time they struggled with Chinese soldiers... We can say the same for Yeonmi's sister, who travelled to China before her family and couldn't reunite with them for many years... Joseph's sister might have been captured by Chinese soldiers, or even worst, but honestly I want to not believe it...

    • @NicoleKe
      @NicoleKe 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      pp XVIII qq They didn't. I'm sure his sister had every intention on coming back.

    • @OleDiaBole
      @OleDiaBole 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Now that is what i call masterpiece of propaganda.
      So disgusting to us whoo have diferent (uncensored) sources of information and actuly whent to that country.

  • @chnalvr
    @chnalvr 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This extremely brave, wise young man stood on a public stage, delivered a difficult message in a foreign language, in a foreign country. He is an example of the best of humanity. We can all learn something from his example.

  • @gaurabdas7956
    @gaurabdas7956 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I cant stop my tears after the message he gave to his sister hoping he would see her again. Its so heartbreaking.

  • @ForeverCellist
    @ForeverCellist 10 ปีที่แล้ว +247

    For the people wondering, the latest thing I've heard (from Joseph himself, at the Liberty In North Korea Summit) is that he hasn't found his sister yet, but he is still looking.

    • @Artistgirl254
      @Artistgirl254 5 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Any updates 4 years later?

    • @macbitch2825
      @macbitch2825 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Yes, any updates?

    • @jendeukie5322
      @jendeukie5322 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Any updates?

    • @annorabelle
      @annorabelle หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      As of an article in 2023, he still has not found her.

  • @frankyu451
    @frankyu451 8 ปีที่แล้ว +980

    Man I cried when he got to the Chicken Wing

    • @Andreas_Mann
      @Andreas_Mann 7 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      i read chicken wong and had to laugh out loud.. damn

    • @frankyu451
      @frankyu451 7 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      ... ummmm

    • @gabrielag6307
      @gabrielag6307 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      😂😂

  • @malakoueslati1951
    @malakoueslati1951 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    "I was FIlled with hope , enough to hope that the next trash had food , even though I knew it didn't" literally cried..

  • @TedGournelos
    @TedGournelos 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I still remember seeing this live and crying because it was so beautiful. I'm forever grateful.

  • @noahsupernobah9040
    @noahsupernobah9040 8 ปีที่แล้ว +309

    I had the utmost privilege to meet this man a few days ago. I interned as a lobbyist for the Korean Church Coalition, am organization that fight for human rights in North Korea, and he came as a guest speaker in our conferences. His testimony is powerful and amazing. Such a kind hearted and loving man.

    • @LittleDhampir23
      @LittleDhampir23 8 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Has he found his sister yet?

    • @noahsupernobah9040
      @noahsupernobah9040 8 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      I wish I could tell you but I have not heard any news :( We just have to keep praying and hope that he does

    • @LittleDhampir23
      @LittleDhampir23 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      noahsupernobah okay thanks! Yeah I hope he does :/

    • @nomalangak
      @nomalangak 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      noahsupernobah: How can we help you and those in North Korea ?

    • @bec3993
      @bec3993 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thank you for commenting this.

  • @tetrulz
    @tetrulz 7 ปีที่แล้ว +451

    Joseph Kim if you are reading this, I just want to say that you are such an inspiration. Your courage, bravery and determination is amazing. Also, you made me cry like a baby with your speech lol.

    • @JakeBroe
      @JakeBroe 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Agreed! He is a true inspiration!

  • @valouMJcalifornia7
    @valouMJcalifornia7 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I couldn't help crying hearing his story and listening to his sister and mother message :'( I hope he found them and I hope he is happy now. He went through so many hard times that I wish he has a beautiful life today. He deserves it ....

  • @FLipSide5254
    @FLipSide5254 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Listening to his story just making me cry. I can't imagine that kind of life. I can feel the sadness on his face.

  • @classicallady
    @classicallady 7 ปีที่แล้ว +142

    To all Americans: PAY ATTENTION and STOP THROWING FOOD AWAY. The dishes here are so ridiculously exaggerated...Thousands of TONS of foods end up in the trash......

    • @cramencg8057
      @cramencg8057 7 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      Maybe not just americans, how about everybody?

    • @bellareader6772
      @bellareader6772 7 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Tatiana Costantinni don't worry about the food, worry about the people who are still there.

    • @bluntbangs
      @bluntbangs 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes, but as someone who lives in America, it has been proven that we waste and eat a lot more food than other countries as well as throw away tons of garbage while other european countries (i cant remember which one exactly) have a recycling system that's almost perfection.

    • @avipamma2801
      @avipamma2801 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Germany

  • @mollyjoy1998
    @mollyjoy1998 7 ปีที่แล้ว +600

    It's devastating that a country can cause such distress to its people and tear families apart like that. Such an inspirational and moving talk

    • @RussiaGoodFantastic
      @RussiaGoodFantastic 6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      And the US doesnt do the same for other countries when it is bombing them?

    • @Jonedcc
      @Jonedcc 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      @@RussiaGoodFantastic oh and I suppose Russia is sending rockets of candy to Syria. Can you name a single country Russia helped out of poverty?

    • @ledomc2007
      @ledomc2007 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      communism/socialism

    • @sevyread7795
      @sevyread7795 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I live in South Korea. I didn't know North Korea was that devastating.

    • @comradesusiwolf1599
      @comradesusiwolf1599 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ood

  • @finnwhim134
    @finnwhim134 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    i’m at dinner watching this and i’m literally trying my best not to start crying

  • @SavannahVu1985
    @SavannahVu1985 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Brought me to absolute tears. What a beautiful story of hope, strength and courage. I pray he finds his sister and mother. The trials and tribulations for this young man have been nothing short of amazing. I hope he is able to have a fulfilling life.

  • @nabidisla.5086
    @nabidisla.5086 8 ปีที่แล้ว +346

    His english is just
    BRILIANT!!

    • @robertlee4209
      @robertlee4209 8 ปีที่แล้ว +31

      brilliant*

    • @melodiclogic9904
      @melodiclogic9904 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Julie Sprik what more do you expect with a username like “Get Rekt 69”

    • @zainabsaj
      @zainabsaj 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yes.
      And to those who think it's okay to embarrass someone for missing an L, which can easily be a typo, I'll remind you that at least he's being a nice and positive person instead of sitting and trolling others.

  • @michaelstrahan2.0
    @michaelstrahan2.0 8 ปีที่แล้ว +218

    Tears!! Especially at the end. Just.. tears. What a sweet sweet man who deserves only the best in life.

    • @cgtcne
      @cgtcne 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Michael Patrick Strahan Amen

    • @concepcionmaisling1683
      @concepcionmaisling1683 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      All those were able to successfully escape NK are the instruments of GOD to.let.those world leaders and powerful countries open their.hearts.that life.is the.greatest gift from God. God is life.

  • @heartworkbykitty7933
    @heartworkbykitty7933 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    It rips my heart and mind apart to try to even comprehend the pain and suffering he and other refuges have been through. I send him so much love ans thanks for sharing his story.

  • @raymond3380
    @raymond3380 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    i cant stop crying on this video, he had real sadness in his eyes

  • @zeokhann
    @zeokhann 8 ปีที่แล้ว +583

    I'm not crying you're crying

    • @chaosandduality931
      @chaosandduality931 8 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      no! you are crying! not me (lies) I'm not crying (more lies)

    • @miccalito
      @miccalito 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      SystemCurse dude, tears just fell in my face! I was sitting there watching this video not crying and poof, just fell in my face. They came from nowhere.

    • @solveigredler4606
      @solveigredler4606 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes I’m crying

    • @Jess-yp9fo
      @Jess-yp9fo 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I fr had to go to the bathroom just to cry

  • @AlwaysRetr0
    @AlwaysRetr0 7 ปีที่แล้ว +704

    6:37 "you're not my son anymore."
    Though amazingly his father must've sacrificed his own life to have starved to death and for his children to not. He clearly did not give up on Joseph, and gave him and his sister as much as he could before dying.

    • @AlwaysRetr0
      @AlwaysRetr0 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Oh, he mentioned that later on. I thought he might.

    • @bluntbangs
      @bluntbangs 7 ปีที่แล้ว +85

      I think that asian especially Korean parents say a lot of strict things which may give us westerners the idea that they are crueler to their children, but I think they love their children just as much as any other parent, and only say things like that because they want their child to succeed.

    • @paolobenedicti1319
      @paolobenedicti1319 7 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      SooDoneWithYou ...or they just want them to survive

    • @bluntbangs
      @bluntbangs 7 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      No, I mean in general, not just poor parents.

    • @happybanana9586
      @happybanana9586 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ooff don't make me cry :(

  • @yaihan
    @yaihan 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Truly an inspiration and also a really sad story. I cried like a child watching this story . Very touching

  • @mariamchaibi9444
    @mariamchaibi9444 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This made me tear up... I hope from the bottom of my heart that finds his mom and sister back 😢😢

  • @ashleysue21
    @ashleysue21 9 ปีที่แล้ว +120

    When Joseph starts making his message to his older sister I teared up right when he said, "Noona,.." :) :,(

    • @mariarosiles8662
      @mariarosiles8662 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Omo me too I was like nope I can't :(

  • @abyssamba
    @abyssamba 7 ปีที่แล้ว +128

    When he said he hoped the next trash can would have bread, I cried.

  • @sevengem
    @sevengem 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    My heart goes out to this sweet, courageous man. I hope his loved ones will find their way to him.

  • @jacquelineoconnor5401
    @jacquelineoconnor5401 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This is truly heartbreaking, this poor boy, I am so upset I want to hug him x

  • @ColinZeal01
    @ColinZeal01 8 ปีที่แล้ว +344

    And here I sit pissed over the fact that Xbox Live is down.

    • @ColinZeal01
      @ColinZeal01 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      ***** It's never your fault huh? ;)

  • @yorizori7964
    @yorizori7964 9 ปีที่แล้ว +202

    Wish you, your sister and your mother all the best sincerely.
    From South korea,

  • @desireeheremaia7636
    @desireeheremaia7636 5 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I hope there's been an update with finding his mother and sister after all this time, though such information is very tricky to track down. Many prayers for him, absolute respect!

  • @ast5368
    @ast5368 7 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    This got me crying within three minutes 😭😭😭
    His story, even though I haven't finished it, is very emotional and touching. God bless this man!

  • @bateria31
    @bateria31 7 ปีที่แล้ว +341

    "Under the Same Sky: From Starvation in North Korea to Salvation in America" - the whole book about him and his heartbreaking, shocking story. Im here, watching this video because of that book, I still cant belive in things I read there. I really reccomend it.

    • @whytedaisesify
      @whytedaisesify 7 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      I didn't know there was a book. Thank you, Im going to search for it and read.

    • @KateMich12
      @KateMich12 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you.

    • @tpo6142
      @tpo6142 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Me too...loved the book

    • @etttlesaintfrusquin2670
      @etttlesaintfrusquin2670 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you

    • @theseusvsminotaurus
      @theseusvsminotaurus 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Do you perhaps know where I can find the book?

  • @Grizzlebearify
    @Grizzlebearify 9 ปีที่แล้ว +135

    The last part I thought the host was going to bring his sister out on stage. It made me teared up so much. So inspirational

    • @klautaku
      @klautaku 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      AriaLynn Saddly, this is not TV....it's real life u.u

  • @bepalpha-anngonnaugon6540
    @bepalpha-anngonnaugon6540 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I moved to tears when he sent mesage to his mom and sister. Blood relationship is very great. I hope his close relatives will have happy life as him. Best regards to them.

  • @snoopy-mf7nv
    @snoopy-mf7nv 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just want to give this young man a big bear hug and lots of love and healing energy. I hope he finds his loved ones.

  • @halfexotic363
    @halfexotic363 9 ปีที่แล้ว +238

    so many tears coming out of my eyes right now..

    • @morgangriffith8181
      @morgangriffith8181 8 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      No joke. I'm crying a waterfall

    • @Amghannam
      @Amghannam 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      +Sam Taylor The message was emotional and all (I know, honestly I'm crying right now for the first time in...) but.. he should have made the message in Korean so it could actually reach his mother and sister..

  • @GraceanneParks
    @GraceanneParks 8 ปีที่แล้ว +161

    "I promise I will not cry again" Oh my goodness I just wanted to hug him. What a beautiful human being I hope he finds his sister.

  • @Rab-km7my
    @Rab-km7my 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I teared so much.... this totally changed my life

  • @merakime5606
    @merakime5606 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Now ted talks are making me cry ...
    I m emotionally available everytime!!

  • @fatimatariq4350
    @fatimatariq4350 8 ปีที่แล้ว +42

    "I didn't think we would ever be separated so I didn't give her a hug...that was the biggest mistake of my life"

  • @bellareader6772
    @bellareader6772 7 ปีที่แล้ว +201

    Okay I lost it when I heard he hadn't seen her since he was 15 or 16, but once he started the letter to her,, I LOST ALL MY WILL TO HOLD BACK MY TEARS DEAR GOD

    • @saurabh3847
      @saurabh3847 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Whole video I was tasting my tears

  • @evenlyodd8022
    @evenlyodd8022 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Ooh ,tears are falling from eyes.. 😭
    He told the true definition of hunger😢

  • @railee8815
    @railee8815 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    the heck it made me cry, hopefully he will meet his sister and mom soon. wish you all the best . Godbless

  • @sylvesterdelonanakjo6624
    @sylvesterdelonanakjo6624 9 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    People are suffering around the world and here I am, laying down in my comfortable bed wishing to not go to school... Joseph Kim, you have changed me for the better.

    • @cutepinkrabbit551
      @cutepinkrabbit551 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      🤗get up son! And me in sitting in Focus TH-camr luv yah ❤️I'm 50s

  • @balakalirajan1396
    @balakalirajan1396 8 ปีที่แล้ว +309

    "That chicken wing changed my life" - quote of the year

  • @longkumer_9629
    @longkumer_9629 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    That message to his Sister and Mom... just teared me up!!! I hope he will meet his family one day !!!

  • @bayarnaadamkhorloo7119
    @bayarnaadamkhorloo7119 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I hope he finds his mom and sister. Tried very hard to hold my tears, but burst into tears when he wanted to send a message to his sister and mom.

    • @tuanas458
      @tuanas458 ปีที่แล้ว

      North Korean "defectors" make all of this up. They are hired by the US military to push propaganda.

  • @RinLaHarlequin
    @RinLaHarlequin 9 ปีที่แล้ว +72

    I couldn't help tearing up when he started speaking to his sister. I can't imagine what it's like to be in that situation... Terrible. My great grandfather was an important congressman of South Korea, one of the country's first. He was a freedom-fighter before that, during the Japanese annexation of Korea. After Korea won its independence, split, and entered into civil war, my great grandfather was kidnapped to North Korea by North Korean spies, where he was probably tortured for information and executed. When I think about all that he's done to keep Korea (or at least a part of it) free, and when I think about how lucky my family and I are because of his sacrifices - lucky enough to become free American citizens - and when I think about how millions of others in North Korea aren't so lucky... god, it makes me so emotional. People like Joseph Kim and Hyeonseo Lee, and many others who have escaped, are so brave and strong. I hope more North Koreans can get out of that evil country and finally LIVE as human beings.

    • @RinLaHarlequin
      @RinLaHarlequin 9 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      My story sounds scripted? Wow. That's interesting considering how it was actually true. I don't have an incentive to make things up about my family's history. And I don't understand why you feel the need to tell me that I'm making this up. What do you gain from this exactly?
      Japan annexed Korea and, yes, they imposed their will upon Korea and thus installed their government there. Just because Japan controlled the Korean peninsula for some time doesn't make my great grandfather's efforts any less true or valid. The Japanese were kicked out, civil war erupted, America tugged on the southern end of the peninsula to contain communism. The South Korean government tried to establish a stronger political footing. My great grandfather was not a fan of the Japanese invaders, but he was also not a fan of Northern Communists trying to impose their will on the South. He believed in democracy, which was probably why he supported the Americans helping out the South (or creating the South as a proxy state to contain communism, whichever explanation floats your boat).

    • @RinLaHarlequin
      @RinLaHarlequin 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      StephenB Thank you for your kind words. The South Korean government acknowledges his sacrifices in the form of official documents, plaques, and benefits to his son, my grandfather. Though my great grandfather is not as well known as Kim Gu, one of his friends and a fellow freedom fighter, my family and those who know him respect his memory and legacy. I'm just so happy to see how far Korea has come! :) Hopefully North Korea will someday enjoy the same freedoms the Southerners have experienced.

    • @TheChinitaPrincess
      @TheChinitaPrincess 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Rin la Harlequin While reading your comments and replies by the youtubers. It's like I'm having a history class LOL

    • @RinLaHarlequin
      @RinLaHarlequin 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      akosi sheilalat LOL Sorry about that. I didn't try to make it that way. Only wanted to leave one comment about an issue that is really important to me and my family, but it ended up being an unwanted debate.

    • @RinLaHarlequin
      @RinLaHarlequin 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Wow, it appears that the person who questioned me deleted his comments or his account. Interesting.

  • @nb5522
    @nb5522 7 ปีที่แล้ว +43

    I was able to hold my crying during the whole speech until he said "Noona", I bursted out crying, I really hope that he will reunite with his sister and his mother some day!

    • @Brey__
      @Brey__ 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Nelly Bergström Same here

  • @heatherblaire3269
    @heatherblaire3269 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    My god, I just started and this guy has been through it. Im already crying. Really hit me hard

  • @nursefaithrn4321
    @nursefaithrn4321 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What an extraordinary and inspiring young man. He is the epitome of genuine strength, hope, kindness, compassion and perseverance. I'm so grateful to have watched this video of his story!

  • @eevoncheah1892
    @eevoncheah1892 8 ปีที่แล้ว +74

    May you be reunited with your mom and sister again Joseph.

  • @jinsukim8862
    @jinsukim8862 9 ปีที่แล้ว +114

    I shouldve said thanks to and sorry for my grand parents before they passed away...who escaped to S.Korea and left members of family in the North during the Korean war 1950....
    My grandfather used to cry when things like this was on TV. back then i couldnt understand cuz i was too young to understand different ideology and what horrible things happend to N.Korea....
    Hopefully he will find his missing sis and mom soon
    never give up and wish the best luck to you
    Please Chinese people help defectors or refugees from N. Korea

    • @song4361
      @song4361 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      +Jinsu Kim a Korean is asking Chinese to help N Korean like none of his business clap clap clap

    • @iloveicecream127
      @iloveicecream127 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      my grandparents are also escapees from North Korea during the Korean war. it's hard to see your grandparents tearing up remembering their families that they had to leave behind

  • @potatochips6131
    @potatochips6131 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This video makes me think of the smallest thing that I should be grateful of, the way he talks about hope, a very simple philosophy but he makes me believe that hope could bring you anywhere and positivity in your life when you're feeling down

  • @sherif4923
    @sherif4923 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Who could dislike a video like this, this man is an inspiration to me and should be an inspiration to you as well. Congrats to you Joseph for being so strong and getting yourself a better life.

  • @helmi-66
    @helmi-66 10 ปีที่แล้ว +82

    what a change between the comments on this video and the speech with the female north korean. Mainly because the comments are not about his looks, but what he spoke about.

  • @GreenCrap24
    @GreenCrap24 10 ปีที่แล้ว +133

    omg i feel like a gluttonous freak. We definitely take food for granted. This was a great talk.

    • @edve2205
      @edve2205 10 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Definitely! I look at how much food we have here, yet in other countries they have nothing, and are starving to death everyday. It changes your life!

  • @despinavi9866
    @despinavi9866 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    omg I'm sobbing right here ..I trully hope he has a happy life from now on and reunite with his family

  • @beautyxpression6818
    @beautyxpression6818 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Sending you and your family so many prayers and that you all unite again soon. You're so brave 🙏🏿💙