Escaping from North Korea: Lee Tells her story

Probably the first North Korean to stand on the Ted Stage, with tense voice and glimmering emotions still visible she narrates experience of past

The Escape of Hyeonseo Lee from North Korea

• Hyeonseo Lee: When I was young, I thought my country North Korea was the best
• Lee: As I saw suffering, hunger and death around me, I made my way to China
• She says she helped her family escape North Korea with the help of a stranger
• Lee: North Korean people need the support of the international communi
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As a child growing up in North Korea, Hyeonseo Lee thought her country was “the best on the planet.” It wasn't until the famine of the 90s that she began to wonder. She escaped the country at 14, to begin a life in hiding, as a refugee in China. Hers is a harrowing, personal tale of survival and hope -- and a powerful reminder of those who face constant danger, even when the border is far behind.Born in North Korea, Hyeonseo Lee left for China in 1997. Now living in South Korea, she has become an activist for fellow refugeesSource | Source 1 CNN