Who Is Ji Seong-ho? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on April 3, 1982, Ji Seong-ho is a remarkable North Korean defector turned South Korean politician. His journey from a challenging upbringing in North Korea to becoming a vocal advocate for human rights has garnered national and international attention. After fleeing North Korea, Ji became a prominent figure, highlighting the struggles faced by defectors and the oppressive regime in his homeland.
| Occupation | Human Rights Activists |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 3, 1982 |
| Age | 43 Years |
| Birth Place | North Hamgyong Province, North Korea |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | North Korea |
Popularity
Ji Seong-ho's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Ji Seong-ho stands at an approximate height of 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) and weighs around 154 lbs (70 kg). His body measurements reflect his athletic build, a testament to his resilient spirit and determination. Ji is known for his engaging presence, making him a charismatic figure in the political arena.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, details about Ji Seong-ho's family remain relatively private. While his political career is well-documented, there has been minimal public disclosure regarding his dating life. Ji has not publicly announced a boyfriend or girlfriend, leading to speculation about his romantic status. His primary focus appears to be on advocacy and serving his constituents, leaving little room for personal relationships.
On 7 March 1996, Ji, then in his early teens, was on a train stealing coal with his mother and sister when he lost consciousness from hunger while jumping from one train car to another and fell through a gap between the cars.
He later recalled regaining consciousness and seeing the rear of the train receding down the track and then realizing it had run over his body. "A piece of very thin flesh was holding my leg to the rest of my body. Blood was gushing out", he recalled. "I needed to stop the bleeding.
When I tried to work on my leg, I realized that three of my fingers on my left hand had been sheared off." He underwent a four-and-a-half hour operation without anesthetic. "The doctors were thinking whether they should let me die or if it was worth it to operate", he later explained.
"My mom was pleading and crying, so they decided to operate....On the operating table I could feel everything that was being done to my body. I was screaming at the top of my lungs....I felt the saw cutting into the bone of my leg, and the scalpel through my flesh.
Every time I passed out from the pain the surgeon would slap my face to keep me awake. The whole hospital heard my screams....The simplest thing to do was cut off everything. They didn't try to save my remaining two fingers, they just cut off my hand."
Net Worth and Salary
In 2025, Ji Seong-ho's net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. His earnings primarily come from his political career and public speaking engagements, where he shares his experiences as a North Korean defector. Although not among the wealthiest politicians, Ji's financial stability reflects his commitment to advocating for human rights rather than personal enrichment.
Career, Business and Investments
Ji Seong-ho's career took off following his defection to South Korea, where he began raising awareness about human rights abuses in North Korea. In addition to his political career in the National Assembly, Ji has engaged in various humanitarian efforts, providing support to fellow defectors and contributing to international campaigns for Korean reunification.
While Ji has not been known to pursue conventional business ventures, his investments in social advocacy projects and collaborations with non-profit organizations have been impactful. His work continues to draw attention from global leaders, making him a powerful voice for change.
In May 2024, Ji ceased to serve as a lawmaker with the ruling People Power Party. On August 14, 2024, Ji was appointed as the governor of North Hamgyong province, which was a vice-minister level position under the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. As the province occupied by the North Korea, it's a largely ceremonial role.
Social Network
In today's digital age, Ji Seong-ho maintains a presence across several social media platforms, including Twitter and Instagram. His social networks serve as avenues for sharing his insights on South Korean politics, North Korean issues, and human rights advocacy. With a growing following, Ji engages with supporters and advocates for positive change.
On January 30, 2018, Ji attended the 2018 State of the Union Address at the invitation of U.S. President Donald Trump, who told Ji's story of escape from North Korea, stating it as a "testament to the yearning of every human soul to live in freedom".
Education
Ji Seong-ho pursued his education after settling in South Korea, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in his journey toward becoming an influential figure. His formal education has equipped him with the skills necessary for his role in politics and advocacy, contributing to his ongoing efforts to combat human rights violations.
A December 2011 report described him as "well integrated" compared to most other defectors, and said that "his surviving relatives have joined him". Also, government help had allowed him to enroll in college to study law.
He had founded a group called Now Action & Unity for NK Human Rights (NAUH), which "raises awareness of North Korean human-rights abuses and has paid for defectors to move from China to South Korea". The group's members "hold street campaigns during weekends in Seoul, unfurling banners and giving out leaflets, and organise lectures".
The report stated that Ji was "grateful for his new life" every day.
