

996: Christopher Ahn | A Marine in Kim Jong-un's Crosshairs Part One
May 28, 2024
Christopher Ahn, a Korean-American Marine veteran, shares his harrowing journey of aiding North Korean defectors through the Chosen Institute. He recounts assisting Kim Han-sol, the son of the assassinated Kim Jong-nam, providing emotional support in a perilous situation. Christopher discusses the intense risks involved, including threats from North Korean operatives and potential extradition after a high-stakes operation in Madrid. His experiences highlight the courage it takes to escape oppression and the profound impact of humanitarian activism.
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Early Life and Military Service
- Christopher Ahn's father's business was ruined in the 1992 LA riots, and his subsequent startup failed after his death from cancer.
- Ahn took over the family business at 17, then joined the Marines to gain leadership skills and sold the business to support his family.
Search for Purpose
- Ahn's post-military work left him feeling unfulfilled, leading him to seek purpose beyond a paycheck.
- The financial crisis further complicated his search, pushing him towards work that made a difference.
Meeting Adrian Hong
- Ahn connected with Adrian Hong, founder of Liberty in North Korea (LiNK), through a mentor.
- While Ahn didn't initially intend to get involved with North Korea, his family history made the issue resonate.