Ri Il Gyu, a former high-ranking North Korean diplomat who defected to South Korea, speaks out against the oppressive regime he fled. He highlights the dire living conditions for North Koreans, describing them as ‘slaves.’ Following his escape in November 2023, Gyu reveals increasing tensions between North Korea and South Korea, coupled with a troubling partnership with Russia. The defector expresses shame over reports of North Korean soldiers fighting abroad, calling it a violation of human rights and a reflection of the regime’s authoritarian nature. His words draw attention to ongoing human rights abuses in the isolated nation.