Lee Hyeon-seo

Date of Birth: January 1, 1980

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Biography

Lee Hyeon-seo is a North Korean defector and writer, best known for her memoir “The Girl with Seven Names: A North Korean Defector’s Story.” Born in Hyesan, North Korea, Lee grew up under the strict regime of the Kim dynasty. She managed to escape North Korea in 1997 at the age of 17, embarking on a harrowing journey through China and eventually reaching South Korea. Lee’s memoir, published in 2015, offers a gripping account of her life in North Korea, her escape, and her efforts to help her family defect. Since her escape, she has become a prominent advocate for North Korean refugees, sharing her story on international platforms, including a TED talk that has been viewed millions of times. Lee’s work has shed light on the human rights abuses in North Korea and has inspired countless individuals around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Lee Hyeon-seo

1. Lee Hyeon-seo’s memoir, “The Girl with Seven Names,” has been translated into more than 20 languages.

2. She gave a powerful TED talk in 2013 titled “My escape from North Korea,” which has garnered over 10 million views.

3. Lee was one of the first North Korean defectors to speak at the United Nations.

4. She has testified before the U.S. Congress on human rights issues in North Korea.

5. Lee Hyeon-seo has been featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times, BBC, and CNN, bringing global attention to the plight of North Korean refugees.