More on North Korea
We have been praying for almost a year now for the release of Canadians (and good friends) Kevin and Julia Garratt from custody in China where they have been accused of "spying." Last February we were happy to report that Julia was out on bail. At the same time, however, her husband Kevin had been moved to a high security prison. The latest news we have is that she is still being held under house arrest. Please keep this lovely and faithful couple in your prayers.
We have also been praying for South Korean pastor, Kim Jong-wook, sentenced to hard-labor in the North. Now, two more pastors from the South, one who is also a business man, have been sentenced to life in prison at hard labor.
From others who work inside, we also hear that the level of general tension and fear is much higher than in the past. Internal security continues to tighten up, especially on families with members who have escaped to South Korea. At the same time, people are getting tired of their young leader's war games and other extravagant projects such as a new railroad that requires non-existent electricity. Another big project that is due to go public this month is the new Pyongyang airport. Kim Jong Un toured there in June, showing off but also unhappy about the design. Apparently his complaints got the architect executed. Interesting, First Lady, Ri Sol Ju's fashion statement at the grand tour--brooch instead of leaders' portrait pin--has been drawing criticism.
North Korea is sending workers to Tumen, China under tight security in its ongoing desperation to obtain foreign currency. Efforts also include a new fleet of taxis in Pyongyang under a new KKG brand (Kumkang Group) that is part of a newly expanding commercial arrangement with Hong Kong business conglomerate, Queensway Group, closely linked to North Korea's infamous Office 39.
But all is not doom and gloom. It seems that North Korea has produced a miracle drug that can cure Ebola, MERS, SARS, and just about anything else that ails you. All you need is a good Kumdang-2 injection. After all, "Everyone has the right to be healthy."
Ben Torrey
Director
The Fourth River Project, Inc.
