Though we may envisage the North Korean people as downtrodden and uniformly oppressed, our report Movies, Markets and Mass Surveillance shows their hunger for news from the outside world. The influx of information has fuelled a dissatisfaction that prompts many of them to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Meanwhile, the regime’s severe repression of its people continues, as it seeks to control every aspect of its citizens’ daily life.

Sunday 7 April

While the increased dialogue between Kim Jong-Un and other world leaders is welcome, North Korea remains one of the most repressive regimes in existence today. Pray that we would also see improvements in the human rights and living conditions of ordinary North Koreans.

Monday 8 April

Pray for the release of the tens of thousands held in the kwanliso prison camps, and for an end to the horrific torture, sexual violence and slave labour perpetrated in these camps.

Tuesday 9 April

Many North Koreans attempt to escape across the border with China. Pray that China would end its policy of sending these people back, and allow them instead to pass safely into South Korea.

Wednesday 10 April

In researching our latest report on North Korea, we were told, ‘In the beginning, people defected because they were starving. But it is different now. [Now] more and more people want freedom, opportunities and hope.’Pray God would protect all defectors from North Korea in their quest for a better life.

Thursday 11 April

You, Lord, will keep the needy safe and will protect us forever from the wicked. Psalm 12:7. Pray this verse over North Korea today.

Friday 12 April

Pray for the future of the talks between North Korea, South Korea and the United States. Pray for wisdom and guidance for the international community as they engage in dialogue with the North Korean government, and for genuine progress towards peace.

Saturday 13 April

Lord, today we pray for the people of North Korea as they learn about a world very unlike the one they live in, and hunger for peace, justice and opportunity. Move powerfully to protect them and grant them true freedom, we pray. Amen.