Who Is Shin Dong-hyuk? Age, Biography and Wiki
Shin Dong-hyuk, born on November 19, 1982, is a prominent North Korean defector who gained international attention for his harrowing accounts of life in a North Korean prison camp. As of 2025, Shin is 42 years old and continues to be a passionate advocate for human rights and freedom in North Korea. His memoir, "Escape from Camp 14," has shed light on the dire conditions and human rights abuses within the North Korean regime, making him a crucial figure in the conversation surrounding North Korean politics.
| Occupation | Human Rights Activists |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 19, 1982 |
| Age | 42 Years |
| Birth Place | Kwalliso No. 14, North Korea, Kaechon, South Pyongan Province or Soksan-ri, Pukchang, South Pyongan Province |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | North Korea |
Popularity
Shin Dong-hyuk's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details about Shin's height and weight are not widely published, he is known to have a slender physique. It is estimated that he stands approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs around 150 pounds, making him relatively average in height and weight. Additional measurements related to his physique are not publicly available.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Shin Dong-hyuk's personal life has understandably been kept private, as much of his attention has focused on his advocacy work and raising awareness about North Korean human rights issues. As of 2025, there have been no confirmed reports of a romantic partner in Shin's life. His past experiences have influenced his outlook on relationships, and he has often spoken about the challenges he faced while transitioning to life outside of North Korea.
In January 2015, he recanted many aspects of his story of life in North Korea after a video was released showing Shin's father alive, despite Shin having previously claimed he was dead. He also admitted that he lied about being in Camp 14 for his whole life until he escaped in his early 20s, saying that he was actually transferred to a different prison when he was aged 6.
Net Worth and Salary
Shin Dong-hyuk's net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $1 million. This figure reflects his history as an author, public speaker, and human rights activist. He earns a portion of his income through speaking engagements, book royalties, and contributions to discussions related to human rights and North Korea. His salary varies greatly depending on the number of events he participates in each year.
Career, Business and Investments
Shin's career began as a human rights activist after defecting from North Korea in 2005. His dedication to bringing awareness to the plight of North Korean prisoners has led him to travel the world, sharing his story and advocating for policy changes. In addition to his memoir, he has been involved in various humanitarian projects and organizations that focus on North Korean issues.
In 2025, Shin continues to work closely with several NGOs and human rights organizations. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to using his voice to support defectors and raise awareness of the conditions within the North Korean system.
Social Network
Shin Dong-hyuk has a growing presence on various social media platforms, where he shares updates about his life and ongoing activism. He is active on Twitter and Instagram, communicating with followers about important human rights topics, sharing personal insights, and promoting awareness of North Korean issues. His social media presence allows him to connect with a wider audience and engage in meaningful conversations about freedom and human rights.
Shin Dong-hyuk (born Shin In Geun, 19 November 1982 or 1980 ) is a North Korean-born human rights activist. He claims to be the only prisoner to have successfully escaped from a "total-control zone" grade internment camp in North Korea.
His biography, Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West, was written with the assistance of former Washington Post journalist Blaine Harden.
Education
While specific details about Shin's education are limited, it is known that his experiences in North Korea did not allow for a traditional education. After defecting to South Korea, he pursued opportunities for personal development and education, which helped him reshape his understanding of the world. Shin's experiences have led him to become a powerful speaker and writer, utilizing his life story to educate others about North Korean realities.
In conclusion, Shin Dong-hyuk's journey from a North Korean prison camp to a respected human rights activist is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As he continues to share his story and advocate for change in 2025, his influence in the realm of human rights remains profound.
