Lee Ae-ran facts for kids

Lee Ae-ran
Quick facts for kids Korean name
Hangul	이애란
RR	I Aeran
MR	I Aeran

Lee Ae-ran (Korean: 이애란; born in 1964) is a brave activist and leader. She is known for helping people who have left North Korea. Her life story shows great courage and a strong desire to help others.

Lee Ae-ran: A Story of Courage and Leadership

Early Life and Journey to South Korea

Lee Ae-ran was born in 1964. Her family faced many challenges in North Korea. This was because her grandparents had moved to South Korea. Due to these family connections, she and her family experienced a difficult period. She spent eight years in a special camp.

In 1997, Lee Ae-ran made a courageous decision. She traveled to South Korea. This happened after a relative in America shared information about her father. Her father had been involved in activities not approved by the government.

Championing Education and Women's Rights

After settling in South Korea, Lee Ae-ran began to work for change. In 2005, she started the Global Leadership Scholarship Program. This program helps students from North Korea learn English. It gives them scholarships to support their studies.

In 2008, she made history. Lee Ae-ran became the first person who had left North Korea to run for a seat in the National Assembly. This is like running for a position in the country's parliament.

A year later, in 2009, she achieved another milestone. Lee Ae-ran became the first woman from North Korea to earn a doctorate degree. She studied food and nutrition at Ewha Womans University. Also in 2009, she founded the Hana Defector Women's Organization. This non-profit organization helps North Korean women in South Korea. It offers job training, childcare support, and educational help. It also teaches them about human rights.

Promoting Korean Culture and Human Rights

Since 2012, Lee Ae-ran has led the North Korean Traditional Food Institute. This institute provides special training for people who have left North Korea. It teaches them skills for jobs. The institute also works to bring North and South Korea closer. It does this by sharing the food culture of Pyongyang.

Also in 2012, Lee Ae-ran organized a significant event. She led an 18-day peaceful protest. This protest took place in front of the Chinese embassy. During this time, she and others stopped eating to raise awareness. They were speaking out against sending North Korean people back to North Korea from China.

Recognized for Her Bravery

Lee Ae-ran's dedication and courage have been recognized internationally. In 2010, she received the prestigious International Women of Courage award. This award honors women around the world who show exceptional bravery. They often work to promote human rights and social justice.

See also

In Spanish: Lee Ae-ran para niños