They have no choice - they have to share to SURVIVE. You have to keep in perspective the abject dirt-poverty of NoKor. And she was one of the rich ones. Millions literally starve to death in camps, eating tree bark and dirt ☠️
@@RockHudrock She was moderately wealthy some of the years of her life. However, she also had many times where she and her sister had to go into the mountains to collect crickets and edible plants, so they could at least eat anything that day. So no, she wasn't one of the rich.
When you talked about not knowing who your neighbors are, that reminded me of something that happened some years ago. A young man rang my doorbell and introduced himself as the upstairs neighbors' son. He asked when I last saw them since they've been missing for two weeks. I realized that I didn't even know what they looked like, let alone when I last saw them. Really sad actually.
@nidanaeem3876: Hello. Your comment from 2 years ago touched my heart. I hope that your life is good. I hope that you don't have any hearbreak and that you don't have to cry. May your week be great and may you find two or three really true and good friends. God bless you. Barbara 🌺🌺🌞
Damn, she is criticizing the essence of America, our idea of perfect life of "10 acres, no neighbors" and misses evil socialist collectivism. Who knew. lol!
@@vg7985 well, you do you boo but plenty of ppl enjoy close companions around. Imagine just generalizing a whole nation built on mixing different cultures.
When I was a child people would visit each other’s houses all the time. And would eat at each other’s homes (“dinner party”) all the time. With smart phones and the internet that kind of stopped.
I once watched a North Korean defector tell how when he escaped and got to South Korea he got miserable because he soaked in the culture of "having but always wanting more". He said that made him more unhappy than living in scarcity in NK. Eye opening.
I know in the south with hurricanes, that in a disaster, the government is the LAST people you want to rely on. People grill up the meat thawing in the freezer, deliver coffee to those without a generator and enertain each other on the lawns in the evening.
I think you should visit rural areas from the US if you think that Americans don’t know their neighbors. That’s certainly true in the city, but I know all of my neighbors and if I need anything they’d be there. It’s part of why I came back to a rural area after I left. It’s not uncommon at all for people to have a big barbecue or bonfire and for people to socialize with food and for someone to pull out guitars to play. Much of the US is rural and appreciate people and connections more so than in cities.
I think most people in most parts of the U.S. do know their direct neighbors. I live in a city outside of Los Angeles. It’s an apartment building and we pretty much all know each other and look out for each other.
I also live in very rural area out in the country..we are not near any big city at all and we all just get together in this small community and have food and talk..some play music and sing..we all go to church together and share rides to the store when someone needs to go..the older people still can foods..we still grow a garden and have well water..you would maybe like it out in country area like this sometimes 😊 I don't think I could ever like living in the city or not knowing my neighbors..I am a country girl..generations of my family have passed this land down to their kids and then their children and we still own the same land for generations..it is very family oriented and we rely just on each other way out here in the Country..I wish u could experience this🙏❤️
It's so true! I'm from the Bay Area in California and it is so isolating here. It's every man for himself. A few years back, I moved to a rural area of Texas for a year and the difference was shocking. Everyone was warm, loving, brought food to welcome you and did life with you. I only moved back to California because I didn't want to leave my mom by herself. People in the city are pretty cold and individualistic, but not so much in the countryside.
"That kind of solitude and loneliness is new to me." You talking about how the North Korean people share so much with each other, always talk to each other in person, really reinforced my longing for something similar here in the US. I'm getting more and more lonely by the day, and I've wanted to have a place here where people do things just as you described people at home did. If there's anything we can learn from the Koreans, it has to be that.
Same! I miss the feeling of seeing people in person just because they were there and not having to spend months and months coordinating just to visit for a few hours or a day or two. Hell, most of the people I know work so much that even having a phone call is hard. It's no way to live imo.
What I take away from this video: life is very difficult in North Korea, even dangerous, but that doesn't mean that the people (city or country) are always miserable. They work hard to gain very little, but still manage to find some joy in the midst of their daily struggle.
I always felt that as a kid, we lived near Mexico and drove down into it a lot. I have read that when people from Mexico move to the USA, in 13 years they are asking for anti depressants! In the 50s in the USA, people were happier and laughed a lot. Cultural Marxism happened, I guess. Thank you, or, Gracias!
@@RawOlympia the U.S is more of a basic lifestyle where the like the easier things. I have seen american families get togethers they are often plain. They rely on technology. Im not saying its a bad thing because technology and science has helped a lot with discoveries for wellness.
You inspire me to do good. As a first-generation refugee from Afghanistan in Holland I too see the lack of human interaction here. Me and my family too have been affected greatly. I hope I can start a family with my girlfriend soon and buy a house and when capable help other people in need. If possible, adopt a child one day too. Thank you for your wonderful videos.
Hi! Love from Holland ☺️. I feel this too sometimes, like everything and everyone is just so focused on the individual. That can be great, but it can become lonely too. I am blessed to be surrounded by a community and my boyfriends family and friends. I just hope our country can learn things from refugee's cultures, in stead of just trying to make them adjust to our culture. Your life goals and motives are amazing, and I hope you will inspire people here❤️
I think people should remember that life happens everywhere. No matter where you are, people are people. They play games, tell jokes, go to school, go to work, and eat dinner. Even when things are unimaginably difficult, we are still humans.
I’m 41 and grew up without internet and cell phones, social media and I definitely agree we have become pulled apart. I grew up sharing, riding bikes to friends, just more personal interaction. I miss that
Hi kelsey all what you just said in your comment page was great and amazing. Well kelsey if you don’t mind can we be friends, like seriously I feel you’re a nice person. sorry for comment on Public stuff. Here is my email address Greg maxwell755@gmail.com you can contact me up with it.
I couldn't agree more. The 80s and 90s were kind of like this before the internet in the US. People were still individualistic but there was more emphasis on human interaction. Kids still played together outdoors in the neighborhood. There was no online dating people connected in person. Less loneliness and isolation.
Yes!! I grew up in my grandparents’ home and we knew our neighbours well. My grandfather would plant zucchini and give some away and our neighbour would bake zucchini cake with it to share with us. Even to this day, after I have long moved from that neighborhood and everyone else has mostly moved away, I still remember these people
The people that thumb down her videos are either trolls or NK officials. Her light is true🙏🏼I wish more could be done to help the people of NK. We are all one human family.
despite differences in culture, politics ,and living standards the musical instrument THAT LINKS ALL OF HUMANITY TOGETHER IS THE ACCORDION !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for the video. It’s true. In Mexico a lot of people don’t have as much as we do here. And on Christmas the neighbors all unite together to go to the neighborhood church and gather together. And neighbors communicate and help one another. Unlike the U.S. I even have family members that don’t want to be around family. It’s different than other countries. Thanks for sharing. It’s nice to know about other culture. I enjoy learning about how other cultures live.
We definitely need to learn to trust our neighbors. All of us want it so it makes no sense why we don’t. I am 43. I remember when I used to hang out with my friends as a teen. We didn’t have cellphones back then so we would have to drive up to the house and just knock and walk in. We gotta get back more trust!!!! Period.
Hi Elizabeth all what you just said in your comment page was great and amazing. Well Elizabeth if you don’t mind can we be friends, like seriously I feel you’re a nice person. sorry for comment on Public stuff. Here is my email address Greg maxwell755@gmail.com you can contact me up with it.
At least where I live I think the increase in rentals, rather than mortagages or ownership doesn't help. Why get to know your neighbour if they'll move soon. Why invest in a community you'll not be in soon. Sad.
@@conn1e Hi Connie all what you just said in your comment page was great and amazing. Well Connie if you don’t mind can we be friends, like seriously I feel you’re a nice person. sorry for comment on Public stuff. Here is my email address Greg maxwell755@gmail.com you can contact me up with it.
Imo extreme individualism is why the pandemic has gotten so bad in the US. Why would you take measures to protect your community if you don't care about other people in the first place?
Thank you, Yeonmi, for opening our eyes to the numerous differences of living in a free country as opposed to the many restrictions in North Korea, but also for bringing up the point that neighbors in NK are seemingly much closer to each other than we are in large U.S. cities. Another comment cited that residents in rural areas of America are much closer to their neighbors, which is true, because I've lived in both places. There is indeed a difference. Happy New Year to you as you continue to be a brave spokesperson on behalf of your native country. God bless you.
Thank you for sharing something so personal like this with us. While I know you grew up and lived in horrible conditions, NK was still your home for so long. I can’t imagine how heart breaking it must be for you to be away from your original home and country even out of necessity, or to be fighting for your birth country through your defection and human rights activism. The dictatorship in NK is horrible, I hope we live to see a day when NK is truly free and perhaps you can return one day either to live again and rebuild positively or just to visit freely.
Yeonmi, I’m so glad I found your channel! You are so wise and inspiring! I love the passion you have to help people and I learn so much from you every time I watch one of your videos!
This video is incredibly moving for me to watch. Someone told me that our technology brings people who are far away closer, and pushes people who are closer further away. Seeing your video makes me think that this is really true.
I agree about technology causing loneliness. I have a rule that I follow. If there is someone to talk to and interact with, I would not be on my phone. I also make time to visit in person with my friends regularly. I appreciate you and your insights.
You are so full of wisdom before your years Yeonmi. Your people are truly an asset to humanity and I look forward to the end of their oppression and seeing them take their rightful place in the wider world.
Really liked this video. I really wish it was more common for people here in the US and other parts of the developed world to still connect in person. It has been especially hard with the pandemic, but even then...like you said. When I used to live in an apartment I never knew my neighbors really. I know my neighbors now but we only have small talk. I miss the times before social media sometimes and connecting to people in real life.
A very inspiring video Yeonmi. I am 46 and fondly remember the times before technology ruled our lives. Although we are more connected than ever we are also more disconnected as a result of it. Thank you for another insightful video and I wish you and your family a wonderful New Year.
I agree Human rights to me are most important my family in Venezuela is suffering under communism and I am grateful to be born in the USA everyday. But somehow I can’t forget them while I can eat good food everyday then can’t it’s really sad 😞
When all you have is each other, you lean on each other. Or should. This is how my dad described his childhood in the 40sand I remember my childhood in the 90s just busting through the door of the neighbors and my friends, all excited lol good memories
Thank you so much for sharing this. I was wondering about this subject. A lot of times when I am watching your videos I am thinking things like "I bet you can actually see the stars at night in north korea", or "all their food must be organic, It sucks that the method used to sow and harvest are so incredibly inhumane", or"I bet that you actually can have a conversation with your loved ones without feeling like you are competing with their phone for their attention":). It may sound silly everytime I watch your videos it helps restore my faith in humanity.
Being from a small town and now living in a city, I do miss the close knit feeling I had with my community, but most of my friends moved away so I found my own community in the city. The community theater groups are like my second family and I hope more people can have that feeling. Thanks for sharing this Yeonmi, I hope one day the people of North Korea can be free and be a part of our community as well.
what we call "rugged individualism" in the US that we value so much is actually the freedom to be an individual. but what you are saying is absolutely true, that it's what we have in common that makes us strong.... not our diversity. Diversity is wonderful only as far as it is a function of freedom. with out common ground we are nothing.
I am glad that you spoke that being with people is important, I really agree with you. This Christmas my son went to his friends place on the 24th and might be back today. It is hard to be alone without him around. I did have a video call with my mom and my siblings on Christmas day and it was so nice but actually physically being with family and people is so much more satisfying and fulfilling. I spent time thinking about my childhood of big extended family get togethers and I wished that I was back there even for a minute. I am blessed that as a child to have a big extended family with Grandparents and Uncles and Aunts and cousins. We would all end up at one relatives place or another and usually skating, hockey, tobogganing, and the food was awesome. ( skating was always on frozen ponds or lakes). So it is lonely in the culture that we are in now, especially with the lockdown orders in place. I hope you will have a great New Year!
The solitude and lack of social interaction is not endemic to the west. It wasn't like this fifty years ago. Social media and the internet have led to people not interacting with each other in person. It is really sad though, and something that I hope we can change soon.
Absolutely loved this. I hate their government, I complain about my own government. But we are all human. Tell me about the good stuff! Let's all smile!
You're family is beautiful. Crazy to imagine what you all went through. Hearing your story gave all of you a special place in my mind and heart. Thank you.
I wish things were still “old fashioned” ... the internet is both a blessing and a curse. America has the highest the most obese population and that was true before everyone had a smart phone. We will become lazier and lazier and dumbed down as a whole and it’s already started happening. Thomas Sowell said something like ‘we have the highest number of kids attending college than ever before but kids are dumber than ever before’ and he is absolutely right
We had a "fat lady" on our block, my friend's mom. She was the fattest lady on the whole block, fatter than any of our teachers, fatter than anyone most of us knew. I think of her now and realize she was probably just around 200 lbs., maybe even 180. She didn't need a walker, she did her own gardening and cooked the meals and did laundry just like any other mom. Now she would easily blend into any crowd, the wouldn't be the fat lady anymore.
Human connection is essential for wellbeing. For everyone, introvert or extrovert. You are basically pointing out the biggest flaw in this modern, western individualist lifestyle we have. I hope future is much more communal: smart technology doesn't have to rule out real connection that we all need.
I like that even though the first time I heard you speak about your life in N Korea you always thought of food and the lack thereof that being with others is a good thing for you. I agree with you. People don’t even know how to have a conversation face to face much since everything is done on the phone etcetera. You seem so sweet.
I would bet money that average North Korean people are genuine and wholesome. And the communities are very tight knit and friendly. Is that statement accurate?
I think so too. North Koreans seem very hard-working and responsible, but are robbed by their government, e.g. the Kim family and their enablers. Imagine what they can achieve if they have their freedom.
I don't know but I feel like whilst the people may be nice they're also probably suspicious to everyone around them when they're stuck in NK. I remember Yeonmi talking about how nobody in NK has friends because people are eager to report to the government due to brainwashing. Which would mean to me there's not actually much of a nice community because everyone must be constantly paranoid and afraid of eachother because everyone around them is spying on them for the government, waiting for them to accidentally not call Kim Jong Un "comrade" so they can get them sent to a death camp...sounds like a really awful way for people to live and I can't see how you'd like your neighbours or ever trust them under a system like that :(
Aw this video made me cry. Your end message was so pure and lovely. I hope you have the best Christmas and thank you for making me grateful for everything that I have Yeonmi :) xx
As a child growing up in a small mountain community in the 80’s, I can really relate to this. I miss the community we had back then, how everyone came to the school to watch our plays, how we gathered together for halloween to do hay rides, trick or treat from door to door and have a big party at the end of the night at someone’s home where there were snacks, drinks and someone telling scary ghost stories, how at Christmas, we would go house to house caroling in the snow and after a few ours once again meet at someone’s house for hot cocoa and deserts. We had “potlucks” at the church every month it seemed and everyone brought their best dish for everyone to share and enjoy. That is a time and place I miss very much, though the place is still there and many of the community events still happen, it seems more magical from my childhood memories.
Rural America and Urban America are very different. The sense of belonging and community missing in Urban America is still alive in our small towns. Now, sadly, as an F.O.B. you won't be included as quickly as your children or grandchildren. How to start? Food. Make something, knock on a neighbor's door, and offer to eat/drink together.
I find it interesting how you mention the human connection. Before the pandemic, I made a point to meet my friends in person over food or board games. I have been trying to still do this safely during the pandemic. It's so nice to just see people and talk. I like to put my phone away and sometimes even turn it off completely for a few hours and talk and laugh and debate together. I didn't grow up in DPRK but I grew up in a cult. There was a lot of oddly similar restrictions on my daily life. Technology was heavily controlled (even though my father is a networking engineer) and so was media. So what did we do? Crafts. Cooking. Card games. Things you HAVE to do together. My family is still like this. At holidays my stepmom wants to play boardgames and I welcome it. I'm bad at them but it's fun and heartwarming. Or we sing together. Being together and alleviating loneliness is wonderful and important.
Yeonmi you’ve seen Americans through fresh eyes. Your observation is very well substantiated. I spent my Christmas alone and on UA-cam. I don’t feel lonely but maybe I’m just used to being alone. I remember growing up and how I was taught to say hello or to give a greeting to any I was passing by on the sidewalk according to the time of day. I have stopped greeting anyone because I never get any kind of response. I guess everyone is on the guard these days. Thanks for sharing different events and emotions you have about your homeland. Perhaps one day we can all sit down with strangers and drink tea. Learn something about a stranger and maybe make a good friend in the process. I admire you very much. I’m sorry you’ve suffered so much in your young life. But I find you an inspiration. I’m happy for you. Live long and prosper..
@@unnamedchannel1237 I don't think I need to be specific because 99.9% of people will understand what I mean. As someone who does web development for a living and enjoys it, I get it is nice sometimes.
Yeonmi, I feel like you are an old friend chatting with me personally. Your experiences that you relay to to all of us are so sincere and heartfelt. Thank you. I enjoy listening to you. You really are a beautiful person. Don't change!
I definitely think there is a higher level of loneliness and detachment in America. I notice it in my life. I’m used to being alone. Also, I think we are encouraged to grow up and move away and begin “new adventures.” I’ve seen it in my life and regretted my moves. However, once you’ve been gone for several years, it’s hard to return unless you’re ready to start over which gets harder as one gets older. I think the biggest lie of my generation was to “move” and “venture out.”
I'm 75 and I miss the time when people actually spoke face-to-face to others. My large extended family is play with their damn cell phones. I have a lot of grandchildren but I never talk with them since their always chattering away on their f*****g phones. My poor wife is never without her tablet! I love technology and own a computer, tablets, website, on line store, etc, etc, etc but I always find the time to speak to my fellow human beings FACE TO FACE and not through a damn machine. I'm an astronomer so I know technology.
I can totally understand the way you miss the simplicity and togetherness. And I really pray that i can meet North Koreans as free people in person in my lieftime. And also i am getting your book as my birthday gift yeonmi! I am so excited to read it!
I enjoy videos like this! You are so much brighter and better educated than me, but you explain things simply so they are meaningful to even someone like me. Thank you!
I am not Korean but can relate to you. I miss the same things. Our house's door was always open for friends and neighbors. Our neighborhood was a big family.
You are soo insightful. I do know living in cities and apartment or condo buildings people don’t know each other. I live in the suburbs of Chicago. We have had block parties and have gotten to know some of our neighbors. Our neighborhood is friendly but we don’t know each other well. We tend to make friends at work and at church. Our son and his family moved to another state. We are thinking of moving there but it will be hard to leave church and work friends and try to start over.
I always say this. I am American but I have lived in Mexico, China and South Korea. America is TOO individualistic. Sometimes it’s important to think about the group.
I’m so grateful for your videos Yeonmi, your humanity and grace is so amazing! Sending all my love from Australia 🖤 I hope you had a wonderful holiday season with everyone you care about!
Humanity is a natural state. It's a pity there are dictatorships that have totally lost their humanity. We love you Yeonmi. Go say hello to your neighbours. Don't be afraid, they are shy too.
🌌🌟 Did y’all enjoy the night sky together? With no light pollution, I was always hopeful that the people of North Korea find comfort in the amazing night sky that most of the world cannot see. This was such a beautiful message. You have the most beautiful, thankful and forgiving heart Yeonmi! It makes me SO happy to hear of the joys your people are able to experience. ❤️❤️❤️
This is such a beautiful and inspiring video! The truth needs to be heard and it's sad that these horrible things are happening to the people in NK and it is sad that horrible things are also happening in other countries. Your video gives me such a peaceful and exciting feeling to know that another person feels the same about the most important things in life for humanity. If we take away our Nationalities, religious beliefs or Race, I believe that so many people who have done some deep soul searching can relate to the basic things in life that would make many human beings happier. I am part Maori and Samoan but raised in western society however, I am ultimately human with a heart and with basic human needs. Growing up I always felt that I was raised by the devil and god at the same time (long story), and I experienced so many things by observation, through family secrets or directly including beatings to the point of hospitalization, bruising, broken bones and/or covered in blood, gangs, drugs, police, deceit, sexual advances and rape at a young age, manipulation, living in fear and living in hiding, pure hatred, lies but I also learned and experienced community, love, support and fun things and, so much more. Some of us choose to continue with what we have been taught and some choose to speak up and break a bad cycle (if you perceive it as bad). So many people have experienced injustices one way or another around the world but can feel like they can't talk or trust anyone. I believe humans like to share as well and are meant to be social. Horrible things are happening to many people around the world, to individuals, groups and to entire nations. I feel deep down inside that life should be simple and the land and sea belongs to all as one big family where basic necessities like food and shelter should be available to all. I will always be hopeful and I know that it would take a 'village', nation or people in large numbers to make a huge difference in the world. Lots of love and hugs to you Yeonmi, Thank you for being so brave and sharing your educational, truthful and inspiring videos of what's happening in NK and risking your life to be the voice of NK people. You are reaching more people every day and I hope that North Korean people will be free in the near future. xxx
Thank you for the video. We love you too. It’s ok to miss you old life without feeling like your not grateful for your new life. It’s very courageous of you to share. 💕
I genuinely wanna see North Korea as a free country, I don't want you to miss so many things
They have no choice - they have to share to SURVIVE.
You have to keep in perspective the abject dirt-poverty of NoKor. And she was one of the rich ones. Millions literally starve to death in camps, eating tree bark and dirt ☠️
@@RockHudrock she wasn’t one of the rich ones? Watch her other videos.
@@RockHudrock She was moderately wealthy some of the years of her life. However, she also had many times where she and her sister had to go into the mountains to collect crickets and edible plants, so they could at least eat anything that day. So no, she wasn't one of the rich.
@@RockHudrock What does it has to do with wanting a free NK? And no, she wasn't one of the rich ones
CCP will never allow that to happen.
When you talked about not knowing who your neighbors are, that reminded me of something that happened some years ago. A young man rang my doorbell and introduced himself as the upstairs neighbors' son. He asked when I last saw them since they've been missing for two weeks. I realized that I didn't even know what they looked like, let alone when I last saw them. Really sad actually.
I am grateful I know my neighbors! 🥰
@Yuuma They re-appeared at some point, yes. Thankfully
That's so sad... have you introduced yourself now?
@@nakitacally4612 Ikr.. I moved out shorty after that, but I know most of my neighbors now :) that actually taught me how important it can be
Oh no. :(
when yeonmi said "even if you're alone, just know that i love you", i literally broke down in tears
Me too
@nidanaeem3876:
Hello. Your comment from 2 years ago touched my heart. I hope that your life is good. I hope that you don't have any hearbreak and that you don't have to cry. May your week be great and may you find two or three really true and good friends. God bless you. Barbara 🌺🌺🌞
I was never expecting this, but there's a flipside to every story
A life lesson.... there's always a silver lining!!🙏🙏
Damn, she is criticizing the essence of America, our idea of perfect life of "10 acres, no neighbors" and misses evil socialist collectivism. Who knew. lol!
@@vg7985 the essence of america is it's people and relationships. this is quite universal around the world.
desiguy55 lol. You mix networking with relationship. In America we mingle and build networks, so we can sell more or clime career/social ladder.
@@vg7985 well, you do you boo but plenty of ppl enjoy close companions around. Imagine just generalizing a whole nation built on mixing different cultures.
This is a video I thought that never would exist, but I guess I was wrong
Shocked UA-cam ain't tried to shut her down yet I mean we live in messed up timeline at the moment scary
@Dinesh Truth Yikes™
You’re so lucky to have the freedom of speech
When I was a child people would visit each other’s houses all the time. And would eat at each other’s homes (“dinner party”) all the time. With smart phones and the internet that kind of stopped.
you have to put forth effort party's don't just throw them self's
In my world things do still happen like that we visit sometimes and play cards and games and have food together. But not as often as before
I once watched a North Korean defector tell how when he escaped and got to South Korea he got miserable because he soaked in the culture of "having but always wanting more". He said that made him more unhappy than living in scarcity in NK. Eye opening.
Somewhere in the middle lyes the sense of abundance.
Did he go back?😆
@@rosscampbell1173 you think it’s funny ?!
@@rosscampbell1173 sadly some defectors have considered and tried which doesn’t always end well
Can you make a video on how do NK people celebrate their birthday, anniversary and weddings 😀😅
Nice idea 😅😅😀
Pretty sure the birthday thing was done and she did not understand cake etc and the celebration
Yes yes!! I really want to learn about that
I heard in another video on another channel that weddings are usually for the elite and is a way of showing off your status.
I think she mentioned how you get a bowl of rice on your wedding day and maybe birthday
When she talked about sharing, even these simple things she says, they're opening my mind
They have to for SURVIVAL.
Please keep in perspective
@@RockHudrock She seemed to enjoy the comment.
I know in the south with hurricanes, that in a disaster, the government is the LAST people you want to rely on. People grill up the meat thawing in the freezer, deliver coffee to those without a generator and enertain each other on the lawns in the evening.
I think you should visit rural areas from the US if you think that Americans don’t know their neighbors. That’s certainly true in the city, but I know all of my neighbors and if I need anything they’d be there. It’s part of why I came back to a rural area after I left. It’s not uncommon at all for people to have a big barbecue or bonfire and for people to socialize with food and for someone to pull out guitars to play. Much of the US is rural and appreciate people and connections more so than in cities.
I think most people in most parts of the U.S. do know their direct neighbors. I live in a city outside of Los Angeles. It’s an apartment building and we pretty much all know each other and look out for each other.
Even a smaller city!! I live in a fairly large American city but our neighborhoods have a strong identity and I know my neighbors.
I also live in very rural area out in the country..we are not near any big city at all and we all just get together in this small community and have food and talk..some play music and sing..we all go to church together and share rides to the store when someone needs to go..the older people still can foods..we still grow a garden and have well water..you would maybe like it out in country area like this sometimes 😊 I don't think I could ever like living in the city or not knowing my neighbors..I am a country girl..generations of my family have passed this land down to their kids and then their children and we still own the same land for generations..it is very family oriented and we rely just on each other way out here in the Country..I wish u could experience this🙏❤️
this. 100% absolutely true.
even city areas if you have a tight group of friends, you can just walk in (after they give you perm).
It's so true! I'm from the Bay Area in California and it is so isolating here. It's every man for himself. A few years back, I moved to a rural area of Texas for a year and the difference was shocking. Everyone was warm, loving, brought food to welcome you and did life with you. I only moved back to California because I didn't want to leave my mom by herself. People in the city are pretty cold and individualistic, but not so much in the countryside.
"That kind of solitude and loneliness is new to me."
You talking about how the North Korean people share so much with each other, always talk to each other in person, really reinforced my longing for something similar here in the US. I'm getting more and more lonely by the day, and I've wanted to have a place here where people do things just as you described people at home did. If there's anything we can learn from the Koreans, it has to be that.
Same! I miss the feeling of seeing people in person just because they were there and not having to spend months and months coordinating just to visit for a few hours or a day or two. Hell, most of the people I know work so much that even having a phone call is hard. It's no way to live imo.
I feel the same way too, for many years 🤦🏼♂️😭
@@MovingOndaisy The same here. Its a huge problem in western societies. I've been lonely for years. I have no friends atm.
@@Francisco-j1e school?
What I take away from this video: life is very difficult in North Korea, even dangerous, but that doesn't mean that the people (city or country) are always miserable. They work hard to gain very little, but still manage to find some joy in the midst of their daily struggle.
Comfort from eachother, in adversity is what they have.
I am glad that North Korean people know how to take pleasure in visiting each other's homes and having pleasant conversations.
It's home. Everyone misses something about home. Never change who you are, or forget where you came from.
PLEASE, ACTIVATE AUTOMATIC SUBTITLES - THERE ARE VERY USEFUL FOR DEAF PEOPLE. THANKS
Or if you’re trying to watch quietly in North Korea
@@princesadepresa5396 ???
Joke
aren‘t they already activated? I can click on an icon saying cc and then the subtitles appear.
@@Vivi-tf3jl Now they are. ;-)
My mom talks about how in Mexico she also would just show up to see her friends. It would be nice to have that sort of connection with people
I belive you. In México is more of a family friends environment. Im mexican myself
I always felt that as a kid, we lived near Mexico and drove down into it a lot. I have read that when people from Mexico move to the USA, in 13 years they are asking for anti depressants! In the 50s in the USA, people were happier and laughed a lot. Cultural Marxism happened, I guess. Thank you, or, Gracias!
@@RawOlympia the U.S is more of a basic lifestyle where the like the easier things. I have seen american families get togethers they are often plain. They rely on technology. Im not saying its a bad thing because technology and science has helped a lot with discoveries for wellness.
You inspire me to do good.
As a first-generation refugee from Afghanistan in Holland I too see the lack of human interaction here. Me and my family too have been affected greatly. I hope I can start a family with my girlfriend soon and buy a house and when capable help other people in need. If possible, adopt a child one day too.
Thank you for your wonderful videos.
Hi! Love from Holland ☺️.
I feel this too sometimes, like everything and everyone is just so focused on the individual. That can be great, but it can become lonely too. I am blessed to be surrounded by a community and my boyfriends family and friends. I just hope our country can learn things from refugee's cultures, in stead of just trying to make them adjust to our culture.
Your life goals and motives are amazing, and I hope you will inspire people here❤️
I’m afghan but born in USA !
There’s nothing more precious than human interaction... thank you for teaching and sharing so much🤗
I think people should remember that life happens everywhere. No matter where you are, people are people. They play games, tell jokes, go to school, go to work, and eat dinner. Even when things are unimaginably difficult, we are still humans.
I’m 41 and grew up without internet and cell phones, social media and I definitely agree we have become pulled apart. I grew up sharing, riding bikes to friends, just more personal interaction. I miss that
Hi kelsey all what you just said in your comment page was great and amazing. Well kelsey if you don’t mind can we be friends, like seriously I feel you’re a nice person. sorry for comment on Public stuff. Here is my email address Greg maxwell755@gmail.com you can contact me up with it.
I disagree. I've et more people from all countries due to the internet existing that i might (probably) would have never met in real life. I'm 46.
Yes, balance is needed between individualism and absolute control.
I couldn't agree more. The 80s and 90s were kind of like this before the internet in the US.
People were still individualistic but there was more emphasis on human interaction. Kids still played together outdoors in the neighborhood. There was no online dating people connected in person. Less loneliness and isolation.
Yes!! I grew up in my grandparents’ home and we knew our neighbours well. My grandfather would plant zucchini and give some away and our neighbour would bake zucchini cake with it to share with us. Even to this day, after I have long moved from that neighborhood and everyone else has mostly moved away, I still remember these people
@June Bug woops - I meant zucchini bread 😅
The people that thumb down her videos are either trolls or NK officials. Her light is true🙏🏼I wish more could be done to help the people of NK. We are all one human family.
despite differences in culture, politics ,and living standards the musical instrument THAT LINKS ALL OF HUMANITY TOGETHER IS THE ACCORDION !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for the video. It’s true. In Mexico a lot of people don’t have as much as we do here. And on Christmas the neighbors all unite together to go to the neighborhood church and gather together. And neighbors communicate and help one another. Unlike the U.S. I even have family members that don’t want to be around family. It’s different than other countries. Thanks for sharing. It’s nice to know about other culture. I enjoy learning about how other cultures live.
We definitely need to learn to trust our neighbors. All of us want it so it makes no sense why we don’t. I am 43. I remember when I used to hang out with my friends as a teen. We didn’t have cellphones back then so we would have to drive up to the house and just knock and walk in. We gotta get back more trust!!!! Period.
Hi Elizabeth all what you just said in your comment page was great and amazing. Well Elizabeth if you don’t mind can we be friends, like seriously I feel you’re a nice person. sorry for comment on Public stuff. Here is my email address Greg maxwell755@gmail.com you can contact me up with it.
At least where I live I think the increase in rentals, rather than mortagages or ownership doesn't help. Why get to know your neighbour if they'll move soon. Why invest in a community you'll not be in soon. Sad.
@@conn1e Hi Connie all what you just said in your comment page was great and amazing. Well Connie if you don’t mind can we be friends, like seriously I feel you’re a nice person. sorry for comment on Public stuff. Here is my email address Greg maxwell755@gmail.com you can contact me up with it.
I just got your book for xmas. You have changed my world view. Thank you for your bravery.
I always say Americans care too much about themselves as an individual. This is so touching and heartbreaking.
Imo extreme individualism is why the pandemic has gotten so bad in the US. Why would you take measures to protect your community if you don't care about other people in the first place?
100%. Compassion and sharing is seen like a weakness
Thank you, Yeonmi, for opening our eyes to the numerous differences of living in a free country as opposed to the many restrictions in North Korea, but also for bringing up the point that neighbors in NK are seemingly much closer to each other than we are in large U.S. cities. Another comment cited that residents in rural areas of America are much closer to their neighbors, which is true, because I've lived in both places. There is indeed a difference. Happy New Year to you as you continue to be a brave spokesperson on behalf of your native country. God bless you.
Thank you for sharing something so personal like this with us. While I know you grew up and lived in horrible conditions, NK was still your home for so long. I can’t imagine how heart breaking it must be for you to be away from your original home and country even out of necessity, or to be fighting for your birth country through your defection and human rights activism. The dictatorship in NK is horrible, I hope we live to see a day when NK is truly free and perhaps you can return one day either to live again and rebuild positively or just to visit freely.
thank you for this beautiful Christmas story. Merry Christmas and happy new year for you in the FREE WORLD. Hyvää joulua ja onnellista uutta vuotta
Clicks on as soon as I get notified *
You replied before I even got notified by UA-cam
Yeonmi, I’m so glad I found your channel! You are so wise and inspiring! I love the passion you have to help people and I learn so much from you every time I watch one of your videos!
This video is incredibly moving for me to watch. Someone told me that our technology brings people who are far away closer, and pushes people who are closer further away. Seeing your video makes me think that this is really true.
I agree about technology causing loneliness. I have a rule that I follow. If there is someone to talk to and interact with, I would not be on my phone. I also make time to visit in person with my friends regularly. I appreciate you and your insights.
You are so full of wisdom before your years Yeonmi. Your people are truly an asset to humanity and I look forward to the end of their oppression and seeing them take their rightful place in the wider world.
This shows how Humanity prevails under the worst circumstances. Thank you Yeonmi, for another excellent video. Happy New Year!
Really liked this video. I really wish it was more common for people here in the US and other parts of the developed world to still connect in person. It has been especially hard with the pandemic, but even then...like you said. When I used to live in an apartment I never knew my neighbors really. I know my neighbors now but we only have small talk. I miss the times before social media sometimes and connecting to people in real life.
A very inspiring video Yeonmi. I am 46 and fondly remember the times before technology ruled our lives. Although we are more connected than ever we are also more disconnected as a result of it. Thank you for another insightful video and I wish you and your family a wonderful New Year.
I grew up in a small town, we had the same sense of community. We all knew each other and looked out for each other. I miss that as well!
I finished reading your book yesterday! Much love Yeonmi 🤗❤️
I agree Human rights to me are most important my family in Venezuela is suffering under communism and I am grateful to be born in the USA everyday. But somehow I can’t forget them while I can eat good food everyday then can’t it’s really sad 😞
This is a beautiful video! Thanks for sharing your perception with all of us!
When all you have is each other, you lean on each other. Or should. This is how my dad described his childhood in the 40sand I remember my childhood in the 90s just busting through the door of the neighbors and my friends, all excited lol good memories
The 1940’s in America were quite prosperous
YEONMI IS RIGHT.....YOURE JUST 1 OF A FEW.....I BARELY KNOW MY NEIGHBORS HERE IN AMERICA AND ITS MY FAULT AND THEIRS❤️🇱🇷👼🏽
AHhh Yeonmi! I just finished reading your book today. You are such a strong girl and you inspire me so much! Thank you
We were once like that here on the Navajo reservation we all helped each other and share things today it's not like that
Thank you so much for sharing this. I was wondering about this subject. A lot of times when I am watching your videos I am thinking things like "I bet you can actually see the stars at night in north korea", or "all their food must be organic, It sucks that the method used to sow and harvest are so incredibly inhumane", or"I bet that you actually can have a conversation with your loved ones without feeling like you are competing with their phone for their attention":). It may sound silly everytime I watch your videos it helps restore my faith in humanity.
Being from a small town and now living in a city, I do miss the close knit feeling I had with my community, but most of my friends moved away so I found my own community in the city. The community theater groups are like my second family and I hope more people can have that feeling. Thanks for sharing this Yeonmi, I hope one day the people of North Korea can be free and be a part of our community as well.
I found your channel yesterday and you make really interresting videos.
Greetings from Finland!
what we call "rugged individualism" in the US that we value so much is actually the freedom to be an individual. but what you are saying is absolutely true, that it's what we have in common that makes us strong.... not our diversity. Diversity is wonderful only as far as it is a function of freedom. with out common ground we are nothing.
I am glad that you spoke that being with people is important, I really agree with you. This Christmas my son went to his friends place on the 24th and might be back today. It is hard to be alone without him around. I did have a video call with my mom and my siblings on Christmas day and it was so nice but actually physically being with family and people is so much more satisfying and fulfilling. I spent time thinking about my childhood of big extended family get togethers and I wished that I was back there even for a minute. I am blessed that as a child to have a big extended family with Grandparents and Uncles and Aunts and cousins. We would all end up at one relatives place or another and usually skating, hockey, tobogganing, and the food was awesome. ( skating was always on frozen ponds or lakes). So it is lonely in the culture that we are in now, especially with the lockdown orders in place. I hope you will have a great New Year!
you are so kind-hearted and that is what makes you stand out🥰🥰❤
Yea she is so sweet!! 😊
The solitude and lack of social interaction is not endemic to the west. It wasn't like this fifty years ago. Social media and the internet have led to people not interacting with each other in person. It is really sad though, and something that I hope we can change soon.
Absolutely loved this. I hate their government, I complain about my own government. But we are all human. Tell me about the good stuff! Let's all smile!
You're family is beautiful. Crazy to imagine what you all went through. Hearing your story gave all of you a special place in my mind and heart. Thank you.
Wonderful message and I hope that one day we will become more human towards each other. Happy holidays 😊
A beautiful and significant message for these times. Wishing you peace and friendship for the New Year ahead.
I wish things were still “old fashioned” ... the internet is both a blessing and a curse. America has the highest the most obese population and that was true before everyone had a smart phone. We will become lazier and lazier and dumbed down as a whole and it’s already started happening.
Thomas Sowell said something like ‘we have the highest number of kids attending college than ever before but kids are dumber than ever before’ and he is absolutely right
We had a "fat lady" on our block, my friend's mom. She was the fattest lady on the whole block, fatter than any of our teachers, fatter than anyone most of us knew. I think of her now and realize she was probably just around 200 lbs., maybe even 180. She didn't need a walker, she did her own gardening and cooked the meals and did laundry just like any other mom. Now she would easily blend into any crowd, the wouldn't be the fat lady anymore.
You are so kind and pure. I am not from US, but I live here now for 10 years and I feel what you are saying with all my soul. Thank you.
Human connection is essential for wellbeing. For everyone, introvert or extrovert. You are basically pointing out the biggest flaw in this modern, western individualist lifestyle we have. I hope future is much more communal: smart technology doesn't have to rule out real connection that we all need.
I just found your videos and I’m so impressed by you and your insight on life. I’m Korean American and was adopted at young age.
I'm from Germany. And people from former GDR fully agree with you, even those who hated the GDR government miss how people cared for each other.
I like that even though the first time I heard you speak about your life in N Korea you always thought of food and the lack thereof that being with others is a good thing for you. I agree with you. People don’t even know how to have a conversation face to face much since everything is done on the phone etcetera. You seem so sweet.
This was very moving and eye-opening. I want these people to be liberated so badly. You are such a wonderful soul ❤
Miss Park. It seems you have a heart of gold. Thank you for all of your videos and especially this video. I appreciate you very much. 🙏🙏
I would bet money that average North Korean people are genuine and wholesome. And the communities are very tight knit and friendly.
Is that statement accurate?
I think so too. North Koreans seem very hard-working and responsible, but are robbed by their government, e.g. the Kim family and their enablers. Imagine what they can achieve if they have their freedom.
I don't know but I feel like whilst the people may be nice they're also probably suspicious to everyone around them when they're stuck in NK. I remember Yeonmi talking about how nobody in NK has friends because people are eager to report to the government due to brainwashing. Which would mean to me there's not actually much of a nice community because everyone must be constantly paranoid and afraid of eachother because everyone around them is spying on them for the government, waiting for them to accidentally not call Kim Jong Un "comrade" so they can get them sent to a death camp...sounds like a really awful way for people to live and I can't see how you'd like your neighbours or ever trust them under a system like that :(
@@absolutelyheretical7132 sounds like San Francisco.
@@DISCO-munication No need to imagine, just look south.
The people of north korea are not bad people just because of where they live. The only bad ppl there are the kim family
Thank you so much for sharing this, Yeonmi!!!
You are such a treasure.
Wish you a good time in the states, full of fellowship :)
1st viewer 😄
Love u eonnie a lottt❤❤❤
Stay happy and safe💜💜💜💜💜
Aw this video made me cry. Your end message was so pure and lovely. I hope you have the best Christmas and thank you for making me grateful for everything that I have Yeonmi :) xx
As a child growing up in a small mountain community in the 80’s, I can really relate to this. I miss the community we had back then, how everyone came to the school to watch our plays, how we gathered together for halloween to do hay rides, trick or treat from door to door and have a big party at the end of the night at someone’s home where there were snacks, drinks and someone telling scary ghost stories, how at Christmas, we would go house to house caroling in the snow and after a few ours once again meet at someone’s house for hot cocoa and deserts. We had “potlucks” at the church every month it seemed and everyone brought their best dish for everyone to share and enjoy. That is a time and place I miss very much, though the place is still there and many of the community events still happen, it seems more magical from my childhood memories.
Another wonderful, insightful video Yeonmi. Thank you.
Rural America and Urban America are very different. The sense of belonging and community missing in Urban America is still alive in our small towns. Now, sadly, as an F.O.B. you won't be included as quickly as your children or grandchildren. How to start? Food. Make something, knock on a neighbor's door, and offer to eat/drink together.
I find it interesting how you mention the human connection. Before the pandemic, I made a point to meet my friends in person over food or board games. I have been trying to still do this safely during the pandemic. It's so nice to just see people and talk. I like to put my phone away and sometimes even turn it off completely for a few hours and talk and laugh and debate together.
I didn't grow up in DPRK but I grew up in a cult. There was a lot of oddly similar restrictions on my daily life. Technology was heavily controlled (even though my father is a networking engineer) and so was media. So what did we do? Crafts. Cooking. Card games. Things you HAVE to do together. My family is still like this. At holidays my stepmom wants to play boardgames and I welcome it. I'm bad at them but it's fun and heartwarming. Or we sing together.
Being together and alleviating loneliness is wonderful and important.
SHE IS AMAZING AND BEAUTIFUL AND I ENJOYED THIS TO THE UPMOST WOW, GOD BLESS HER :-)
Yeonmi you’ve seen Americans through fresh eyes. Your observation is very well substantiated. I spent my Christmas alone and on UA-cam. I don’t feel lonely but maybe I’m just used to being alone. I remember growing up and how I was taught to say hello or to give a greeting to any I was passing by on the sidewalk according to the time of day. I have stopped greeting anyone because I never get any kind of response. I guess everyone is on the guard these days. Thanks for sharing different events and emotions you have about your homeland. Perhaps one day we can all sit down with strangers and drink tea. Learn something about a stranger and maybe make a good friend in the process. I admire you very much. I’m sorry you’ve suffered so much in your young life. But I find you an inspiration. I’m happy for you. Live long and prosper..
There's nothing wrong with being alone.
I miss doing that too before technology existed.
In the 70's when I was young I would ride my bike to a friends house to visit. They would always invite me in and we would have fun together.
Before technology existed? You need to be a bit more specific.steam train is a type of technology
@Sousa Teuzii it’s one of the best and the worst
@@unnamedchannel1237 I don't think I need to be specific because 99.9% of people will understand what I mean. As someone who does web development for a living and enjoys it, I get it is nice sometimes.
@@michaeliskakapo technology stone tools were also ancient type of technology😉😉
Yeonmi, I feel like you are an old friend chatting with me personally. Your experiences that you relay to to all of us are so sincere and heartfelt. Thank you. I enjoy listening to you. You really are a beautiful person. Don't change!
I definitely think there is a higher level of loneliness and detachment in America. I notice it in my life. I’m used to being alone. Also, I think we are encouraged to grow up and move away and begin “new adventures.” I’ve seen it in my life and regretted my moves. However, once you’ve been gone for several years, it’s hard to return unless you’re ready to start over which gets harder as one gets older. I think the biggest lie of my generation was to “move” and “venture out.”
I'm 75 and I miss the time when people actually spoke face-to-face to others. My large extended family is play with their damn cell phones. I have a lot of grandchildren but I never talk with them since their always chattering away on their f*****g phones. My poor wife is never without her tablet! I love technology and own a computer, tablets, website, on line store, etc, etc, etc but I always find the time to speak to my fellow human beings FACE TO FACE and not through a damn machine. I'm an astronomer so I know technology.
I can totally understand the way you miss the simplicity and togetherness. And I really pray that i can meet North Koreans as free people in person in my lieftime. And also i am getting your book as my birthday gift yeonmi! I am so excited to read it!
You're so sweet Yeonmi! What you said made me think about life right now... Thank you so much for this.
Good or bad hometown is hometown
Not for me
I enjoy videos like this! You are so much brighter and better educated than me, but you explain things simply so they are meaningful to even someone like me. Thank you!
Much love from Nepal unnie❤️
I am not Korean but can relate to you. I miss the same things. Our house's door was always open for friends and neighbors. Our neighborhood was a big family.
I’m getting your book soon! I’m excited to read it!
I suggest you have a box of tissue close by!
I just got your book for Christmas! It’s amazing. I’m so happy that your bringing so much awareness to the problems going on in North Korea.
Happy New Year Unnie ❤
Hope 2021 brings prosperity and positivity in the world ☺
You are soo insightful. I do know living in cities and apartment or condo buildings people don’t know each other. I live in the suburbs of Chicago. We have had block parties and have gotten to know some of our neighbors. Our neighborhood is friendly but we don’t know each other well. We tend to make friends at work and at church. Our son and his family moved to another state. We are thinking of moving there but it will be hard to leave church and work friends and try to start over.
I always say this. I am American but I have lived in Mexico, China and South Korea. America is TOO individualistic. Sometimes it’s important to think about the group.
Yeah you can be individual and free sometimes but not listening to your spouse at all is a recipe for divorce.
I’m so grateful for your videos Yeonmi, your humanity and grace is so amazing! Sending all my love from Australia 🖤 I hope you had a wonderful holiday season with everyone you care about!
Humanity is a natural state. It's a pity there are dictatorships that have totally lost their humanity. We love you Yeonmi. Go say hello to your neighbours. Don't be afraid, they are shy too.
Again Yeonmi, more beautiful insight that you shared - Thank You
Merry Christmas! or, I mean, Christmas is over, but still. Also, Happy New Year!
That was very nice to watch. Thank you so much. I am glad you are here in America. I hope your life will be a happy one.
🌌🌟 Did y’all enjoy the night sky together? With no light pollution, I was always hopeful that the people of North Korea find comfort in the amazing night sky that most of the world cannot see.
This was such a beautiful message. You have the most beautiful, thankful and forgiving heart Yeonmi! It makes me SO happy to hear of the joys your people are able to experience. ❤️❤️❤️
This is such a beautiful and inspiring video! The truth needs to be heard and it's sad that these horrible things are happening to the people in NK and it is sad that horrible things are also happening in other countries. Your video gives me such a peaceful and exciting feeling to know that another person feels the same about the most important things in life for humanity. If we take away our Nationalities, religious beliefs or Race, I believe that so many people who have done some deep soul searching can relate to the basic things in life that would make many human beings happier. I am part Maori and Samoan but raised in western society however, I am ultimately human with a heart and with basic human needs. Growing up I always felt that I was raised by the devil and god at the same time (long story), and I experienced so many things by observation, through family secrets or directly including beatings to the point of hospitalization, bruising, broken bones and/or covered in blood, gangs, drugs, police, deceit, sexual advances and rape at a young age, manipulation, living in fear and living in hiding, pure hatred, lies but I also learned and experienced community, love, support and fun things and, so much more. Some of us choose to continue with what we have been taught and some choose to speak up and break a bad cycle (if you perceive it as bad). So many people have experienced injustices one way or another around the world but can feel like they can't talk or trust anyone. I believe humans like to share as well and are meant to be social. Horrible things are happening to many people around the world, to individuals, groups and to entire nations. I feel deep down inside that life should be simple and the land and sea belongs to all as one big family where basic necessities like food and shelter should be available to all. I will always be hopeful and I know that it would take a 'village', nation or people in large numbers to make a huge difference in the world. Lots of love and hugs to you Yeonmi, Thank you for being so brave and sharing your educational, truthful and inspiring videos of what's happening in NK and risking your life to be the voice of NK people. You are reaching more people every day and I hope that North Korean people will be free in the near future. xxx
it’s very important. we need connect with people without devices. by touch, smell, and talk. that makes us human.
Made me tear up at the closing statements. I appreciate you and your videos so much.
Biggest fan yeonmi
Thank you for the video. We love you too. It’s ok to miss you old life without feeling like your not grateful for your new life. It’s very courageous of you to share. 💕