Wanted: Scholar, Writer, and Researcher

The Committee for Human Rights in North Korea is seeking a researcher and writer for an upcoming study of North Korea’s hereditary political caste system, known in Korean as “songbun.” The songbun system, though technically abolished years ago, continues to control each North Korean citizen’s access to employment, residence in the best-supplied areas, and by extension, food and medical care. What is not known is the degree to which the influence of songbun persists, or the extent to which the collapse of North Korea’s socialist distribution system has brought social mobility into North Korea. For those not already resident in South Korea, the project will involve travel to South Korea to interview North Korean refugees, meaning that those already present in Korea have an advantage.

HRNK, a highly respected, bi-partisan, non-profit organization based in Washington, has a record of ground-breaking studies that speaks for itself. Its reports are often quoted in congressional testimony and the world’s most influential newspapers.

The primary qualifications are excellent English-language writing skills, a rigorous and precise approach to research and analysis, and understanding of the subject matter. The position may be paid, and pay will depend on the individual’s qualifications and experience. Korean language skills are desirable but not essential. Interested candidates may contact me, or the Committee for Human Rights in North Korea at webmstr[at]hrnk[dot]org.