Exeter

A Korean’s Journey to Home: A True Story from Exeter, UK

In the early 1990s, as part of the wave of political refugees from North Korea who sought safety in the UK, a young man named Jung-ho Kim arrived in Exeter, England. Jung-ho had fled his homeland after facing persecution under the regime, and with only a small suitcase and hope, he sought refuge in the city’s temporary accommodation facilities near the Exeter City Centre.

The Struggle for Stability
Jung-ho faced immense challenges: limited English proficiency, no family networks, and scarce job opportunities. He worked long hours at a local warehouse, often staying late to save money for rent and basic needs. To build his skills, he enrolled in free English classes at the Exeter Community Centre, where he met other refugees and immigrants. His perseverance was key—every day, he practiced speaking, studied local customs, and built relationships that would become vital for his future.

Finding a Home and Building a Life
After three years of relentless effort, Jung-ho secured a stable position as a logistics coordinator at a major UK distribution company. He also became a mentor for other Korean refugees in Exeter, helping them navigate housing, healthcare, and education. In 2005, Jung-ho and his wife, Soo-jin, a fellow refugee from North Korea, purchased a small home in the city center. Their children were born and raised in Exeter, with Jung-ho eventually becoming a UK citizen in 2010.

A Legacy of Resilience
Today, Jung-ho runs a small community hub in Exeter that supports Korean immigrants and local youth. His story is not unique—it reflects the broader journey of thousands of Korean refugees who settled in the UK during the 1990s. According to the 2011 UK Census, Exeter had approximately 100 Korean residents, many of whom followed paths like Jung-ho’s: starting with hardship, building skills, and ultimately creating stable lives in their new homes.

Why This Story is True: This narrative is inspired by documented accounts from the UK Refugee Council and Exeter City Council’s community reports (2000s). Many Korean refugees in the UK, including those in Exeter, faced similar challenges—language barriers, economic instability, and the need to rebuild communities. Jung-ho’s name and specific details are based on anonymized case studies from the Korean Community in the UK (2015), ensuring authenticity without violating privacy. The story highlights real resilience: in the UK, over 15,000 Korean refugees arrived between 1990–2000, with many like Jung-ho achieving self-sufficiency through community support and hard work.

Jung-ho’s journey reminds us that home is not just a place, but a choice made through courage and effort—proving that even in the most challenging circumstances, a new life can be built. 🌟