Norbert Vollertsen

Norbert Vollertsen (born 1958) is a German physician and human rights activist known for his work in North Korea. After completing his medical education, Vollertsen moved to North Korea in 1999, initially to work in a hospital as part of a foreign aid program. His experiences in the country led him to become an outspoken critic of the North Korean government, particularly regarding its human rights abuses and the condition of its healthcare system.

Early Life and Education

Norbert Vollertsen was born in 1958 in Germany. He pursued a career in medicine, a field that eventually took him to various parts of the world, including North Korea.

Work in North Korea

In 1999, Vollertsen went to North Korea with a German medical aid organization. He worked in a hospital in Pyongyang, where he witnessed firsthand the dire conditions of the healthcare system and the widespread poverty and suffering of the North Korean people. Vollertsen was deeply moved by the plight of the North Koreans and began to speak out against the regime's neglect and oppression of its citizens.

Human Rights Activism

Vollertsen's outspokenness eventually led to his expulsion from North Korea in December 2000. Following his departure, he became a vocal critic of the North Korean regime, using his experiences and observations to draw international attention to the human rights situation in the country. He participated in various campaigns and initiatives aimed at exposing the abuses and providing support to North Korean defectors.

Later Life

After his work related to North Korea, Vollertsen continued to be involved in human rights advocacy, focusing on various issues around the world. His efforts have been recognized through several awards and honors, reflecting his commitment to fighting for human rights and justice.

Legacy

Norbert Vollertsen's work has had a significant impact on raising awareness about the human rights situation in North Korea. His firsthand accounts and activism have contributed to the global understanding of the challenges faced by the North Korean people under their government's regime.