North Korean Missile Builder Finds Home in South Korean Parliament
Once a contributor to North Korea’s missile program, Park Choong-Kwon now sits as a member of South Korea’s parliament, marking a rare journey from authoritarianism to democracy. At 37, he joins just a handful of North Korean defectors who have attained such political stature in the South.
Reflecting on his remarkable trajectory, Park emphasizes the transformative power of liberal democracy and the role of citizens in shaping it. His ascent underscores the resilience of those who have fled oppression, with their experiences offering unique insights into the value of political participation.
Park’s escape from North Korea, orchestrated silently to protect his family, followed years of involvement in the country’s military apparatus. Despite his privileged position in Pyongyang, exposure to outside influences, including South Korean media and Chinese education, catalyzed his disillusionment with the regime.
His departure coincided with a significant event in North Korea’s missile program, providing cover for his exit. The journey to freedom, though costly and perilous, ultimately led him to South Korea, where he now champions democratic ideals from within the legislature.