Seasonal Scholarship Program for North Korean Defector Students

Empowering Voices for International Engagement

During academic breaks, the IDH operates a scholarship-based educational program for university and graduate students from North Korean defector backgrounds, in partnership with the DB Kim Jun-ki Cultural Foundation and Pagoda Language Institute. This program aims to strengthen English language proficiency among North Korean defector students, enabling them to articulate their perspectives, experiences, and ideas confidently within international and multicultural settings. By enhancing practical communication skills, the program seeks to empower participants to engage more actively with the international community and contribute their voices to global discussions on human rights, democracy, and related issues. Participants receive full support for professional English language courses, along with mentoring, study groups, and networking opportunities. Beyond language training, the program fosters personal growth, confidence-building, and long-term capacity development, recognizing language as a critical tool for international participation and self-advocacy. Through sustained collaboration with educational institutions and foundations, IDH is committed to creating inclusive pathways for North Korean defector students to access educational opportunities and to participate meaningfully in international dialogue.