Dec week3 Prayer for North Korea (북한기도 영문)

1. North Korea's Food Prices Soar: "Even in Rural Areas, People Survive on Grass Meals"

Workers in Sukcheon County, South Pyongan Province, are seen eating boiled corn for lunch.

Article Summary

Recently, food prices in North Korea have been skyrocketing, and many farmworkers are reportedly unable to eat proper rice meals even after the autumn harvest, relying instead on "grass meals," according to local sources. The price of rice has exceeded 10,000 North Korean won per kilogram, and even corn prices have surpassed 8,000 won, causing widespread anxiety among residents. This trend arises as people who cannot afford expensive rice are substituting it with corn as their staple food.

Traditionally, rural residents in North Korea would consume rice after the autumn harvest. However, this year, it has become rare even for farming households to have rice meals made purely from grains such as rice or corn, reflecting severe food shortages. Farmers are unable to enjoy the fruits of their labor because the state confiscates nearly all harvested crops under its grain production plan.

Authorities have allocated farmers one hectare (approximately 2.5 acres) of land but demanded a yield of 10 tons per hectare. They threatened legal consequences for failing to meet 70% of the quota, forcing some farmers to sell their household livestock, such as pigs or goats, to make up the shortfall, according to sources.

[December 9, 2024 | Radio Free Asia | Read Article: https://url.kr/jmiabc]

Prayer Points

"Because of the oppression of the weak and the groaning of the needy, I will now arise," says the Lord. "I will protect them from those who malign them." (Psalm 12:5)

• Recently, rice and corn prices in North Korea have surged, leaving many unable to eat proper rice meals and resorting to grass meals instead. Despite working hard all year, farmers are forced to surrender their harvest to meet the state's grain quotas, even selling their livestock to avoid punishment. Pray for God’s mercy on the North Korean people, who suffer from hunger and oppression under the dictatorship.
• Ask the Lord to provide daily bread for the people of North Korea. Until the day gospel-centered reunification allows them to freely believe in Jesus, pray that He would preserve their lives and health.

2. Security Agents Emphasize 'Moral Character' but Face Criticism for Oppressive Tactics

A rural village in Sunchon, South Pyongan Province, where a resident is seen selling goods on the street. / Photo: Daily NK

Article Summary

The Ministry of Public Security in Hoeryong, North Korea, recently emphasized the need for security agents to maintain “moral character” while addressing complaints about their oppressive and violent enforcement tactics. Security agents have expressed dissatisfaction with these directives, citing practical challenges in enforcing regulations.

Street vendors have been vocal about the harsh and aggressive crackdowns, especially when agents are intoxicated. However, the agents defend their actions, arguing that street vending outside designated markets constitutes illegal economic activity and that strong measures are sometimes necessary to maintain social order.

Agents face criticism and repercussions during evaluations if they fail to meet enforcement quotas, prompting them to adopt harsh tactics. Vendors often resist paying fines, leaving security agents no choice but to use coercion. Some agents have even claimed that bribes are offered without solicitation in exchange for leniency.

In their defense, agents also admitted to patrolling while intoxicated, explaining that witnessing impoverished people trying to survive on the streets becomes unbearable when sober.

[December 13, 2024 | Daily NK | Read Article: https://url.kr/rd9dkf]

Prayer Points

"They set up kings without my consent; they choose princes without my approval. With their silver and gold they make idols for themselves to their own destruction." (Hosea 8:4)

• Pray for the impoverished North Korean residents who resort to illegal street vending to survive and for the security agents tasked with enforcing oppressive laws. May God have mercy on all those caught in the cycle of poverty and repression.
• Pray for the swift reunification of North and South Korea under the principles of freedom, democracy, and a free-market economy, so the gospel can flourish throughout the Korean Peninsula.
• Lord, raise up righteous leaders and a government in North Korea that respects human life, upholds human rights, and prioritizes the basic needs of its people.

3. Chinese Police in Jilin Province Photograph North Korean Defector Women Weekly

Article Summary

Authorities in Jilin Province, China, have implemented stricter surveillance measures targeting North Korean defectors in the cities of Siping and Tonghua. Under these policies, local police photograph all North Korean women cohabiting with Chinese men at least once a week and report the images to the authorities. Previously, such monitoring occurred monthly, but since December 1, officials have started conducting these photo sessions weekly, either by summoning women to police stations or visiting their homes directly.

This intensified surveillance aims to monitor their movements and prevent any unauthorized departures from their registered residences. In some instances, authorities conduct surprise visits without prior notice. This has led to growing complaints among the defectors, who feel increasingly pressured and fearful, as well as among local Chinese residents who are inconvenienced by these measures.

In rural areas of Siping, police often require village leaders or women’s association heads to accompany them to these monitoring sessions, further disrupting local life. For North Korean defector women, these policies have created a climate of fear and unease, overshadowing the anticipation of the upcoming new year.

[December 13, 2024 | Daily NK | Read Article: https://url.kr/wns9lf]

Prayer Points

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute." (Proverbs 31:8)

• Pray for North Korean defectors in China, especially women under intensified surveillance, that they may be protected from fear, oppression, and human rights abuses. Ask the Lord to intervene so China recognizes defectors as refugees under the UN Refugee Convention and provides them with proper protection.
• Pray that the Chinese government, as a member of the UN Human Rights Council, would respect the rights of North Korean defectors. May the 2,000 defectors currently detained in Chinese prisons be spared from forced repatriation and granted freedom to settle in countries of their choice.
• Pray for doors to open for these defectors to hear the gospel, believe in Jesus, and find eternal salvation through Him.

President Yoon: "The Journey Halts... Do Your Best under the Acting Authority"

Article Summary

Following the National Assembly’s approval of the second impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol with 204 votes in favor, the president released a four-minute video addressing the nation. Reflecting on his two and a half years in office, he expressed his hopes that public officials, under the leadership of the acting authority, would prioritize the safety and well-being of the people.

He recalled entering politics amidst a time when freedom, democracy, and the rule of law were in crisis, with despair among small business owners and the disillusionment of the youth. Despite the challenges, he found joy and fulfillment in resolving the people’s issues. He expressed regret over the abrupt pause in his journey due to the impeachment, voicing concern that his efforts might go to waste. However, he emphasized that the “journey toward the future” must not stop.

President Yoon called for changes in the political landscape, urging a shift from confrontation to deliberative and considerate politics, and appealed for cooperation to uphold South Korea’s freedom, democracy, and prosperity. Following the impeachment’s approval, the president’s duties are suspended, with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assuming acting authority, supported by the presidential office.

[December 14, 2024 | YTN | Read Article: https://url.kr/mmnibw]

Prayer Points

"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." (1 Timothy 2:1–4)

• Pray for President Yoon Suk-yeol: As his duties are suspended following the impeachment, may he come humbly before God, seeking His wisdom and strength during this challenging time. Pray for his thoughts and heart to be guarded by God and for divine guidance to navigate this crisis.
• Pray for Acting President Han Duck-soo: May God grant him health, insight, and wisdom to exercise his entrusted authority with reverence for God. Pray for capable and loyal workers to support the Prime Minister’s Office and the Presidential Office in making sound decisions on critical national issues.
• Pray for the Korean Church and Christians: May believers fervently pray for those in authority, as instructed in Scripture, trusting in God’s sovereignty over leaders and the nation’s future.

Fox News Affiliate Warns: "If President Yoon Falls, South Korea Could Fall to China and North Korea"

Fox News Affiliate Warns: "If President Yoon Falls, South Korea Could Fall to China and North Korea"

Article Summary

Fox Business, a Fox News-affiliated media outlet, recently covered the unfolding events surrounding President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment and martial law declaration, highlighting the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) calling for his resignation. Northeast Asia expert Gordon Chang appeared on the program to discuss South Korea's current political climate and its impact on the region.

Chang praised President Yoon for his efforts in maintaining peace and stability in Northeast Asia and for his global sensibility but criticized the martial law declaration as poorly executed. He claimed that South Korea’s opposition, progressives, and left-wing factions have historically aligned with North Korea and have attacked the nation’s democracy. Chang warned of chaos if President Yoon steps down, asserting that labor unions are controlled by leftist forces, which in turn are influenced by North Korea.

Chang also suggested that if Yoon resigns, South Korea could see a repeat of past instances where pro-North factions caused severe turmoil. He pointed out that the KCTU could significantly harm the nation if left unchecked. Additionally, Chang noted the risk of foreign interference, particularly by North Korea and China, in South Korea’s elections, including the possibility of fraud in the 21st and 22nd National Assembly elections.

[December 9, 2024 | Finance Today | Read Article: https://url.kr/8x4hwm]

Prayer Points

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." (Ephesians 6:12)

• Pray for Truth in Election Integrity: As Gordon Chang has repeatedly raised concerns about potential election fraud in South Korea, pray for clarity and resolution so that the nation can move forward without unnecessary division or wasted resources.
• Pray for the Exposure of Anti-State Forces: If there are groups colluding with China or North Korea to undermine South Korea’s freedom and democracy, pray that their identities be revealed in the light and their influence removed.
• Pray for National Security and Defense: Amidst the uncertainty of martial law and impeachment, ask God to protect South Korea’s security and guide its defense systems. Pray that the nation remains grounded in truth and righteousness.
• Pray for Wisdom and Discernment for the Media and Public: Ask the Lord to prevent falsehoods and injustice from dominating the media, and grant wisdom and discernment to the people, protecting them from propaganda or manipulation.
• Pray for the Korean Church to Be Watchful in Prayer: May this time of national crisis awaken the Korean Church to fervently pray, standing against the forces of darkness and interceding for peace, unity, and righteousness on the Korean Peninsula.

Delays in Lee Jae-myung's Trials Spark Criticism from the Ruling Party

Article Summary

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, faces multiple trials, including an appeals court case where he was sentenced to imprisonment for violating election laws. The ruling party has accused him of intentionally delaying trials for political reasons, such as not appearing in court, failing to appoint a defense attorney for the appeal, and refusing to accept court documents necessary for proceedings.

In the recent Daejang-dong trial, Lee attended only the morning session, citing his need to attend a parliamentary session. Similarly, he skipped a December 6 hearing, citing the martial law situation as his reason. Ju Jin-woo, the People Power Party’s legal advisor, criticized Lee, alleging he is using delay tactics similar to former lawmaker Choi Kang-wook, and called for strict penalties.

The ruling party emphasized the legal requirement for an appeals court ruling within three months, urging the judiciary to exercise strong procedural authority to prevent further delays.

[December 11, 2024 | TV Chosun | Read Article: https://url.kr/m3vugu]

Prayer Points

"Judgment belongs to God. Do not show partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be afraid of anyone, for judgment belongs to God." (Deuteronomy 1:17)

• Pray for Justice in the Judiciary: May the courts uphold election laws and prevent delays, ensuring fair and timely rulings. Pray for truth and falsehood to be clearly distinguished in these trials.
• Pray for Protection Against Darkness: Ask the Lord to block any attempts by the forces of darkness to disrupt or manipulate the legal process in Lee Jae-myung’s trials. Pray against external pressures, lobbying, or bias, and for judges to remain impartial, making decisions based solely on the law and their conscience.
• Pray for Judicial Independence: May the judiciary remain independent and deliver righteous judgments, so the nation stands firmly on the foundation of God’s justice and truth. Let there be no perception of selective justice or favoritism.