While the "radio" may be considered almost obsolete technology in some areas of the world, Voice of the Martyrs Korea (VOMK) acknowledges that it's an effective means of sharing the Gospel message in North Korea. Despite the significant risks involved, an estimated 20 percent of North Koreans regularly listen to foreign broadcasts using headphone radios. Although Christian broadcasting is illegal in this highly restrictive nation, the use of these radios allows individuals to listen to programs discreetly or alone in the dark, reducing the likelihood of detection by onlookers who may report them to the authorities.
"Listening to shortwave radio broadcasting – listening to any foreign radio broadcasting – is illegal and highly punishable," explains Pastor Eric Foley of VOMK. In addition to the legal implications, the North Korean government actively works to jam radio signals, in an attempt to prevent the broadcasts from being heard. Yet, the messages being sent by VOMK continue to break through the barriers. In 2024, more than half of the autumn broadcasts were received clearly without jamming; and, during winter season, 89 percent could be heard without substantial jamming.
Encouraged by these results, VOMK recently announced the expansion of its radio ministry, adding a fifth daily 30-minute program to be broadcasted into North Korea. (Details such as the time, launch date and radio frequency are withheld from this report for security reasons.) Each weekday, the new broadcast will consist of sermons that were previously prepared by early Korean Christians (prior to the Communist regime); and, on the weekends, uninterrupted readings of the Bible are to be presented. These broadcasts will not only allow listeners to hear the Scriptures but also enable them to transcribe what they receive, so they can create their own handwritten copies of the Bible.
Although reports from this highly restrictive nation are rare, it is a blessing to learn of the creative ways in which God is continuing to work within North Korea, despite the extreme measures taken by the government to prohibit the proclamation of the Gospel. More information is available at our country profile.
- Praise God that the message of His tremendous love – as demonstrated through the life, sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son Jesus – is powerfully reaching into North Korea, despite the many efforts to suppress it.
- Pray for His continued provision towards VOMK's radio broadcasts and other forms of outreach, as well as the protection of all those who are involved in these effective ministry endeavours.
- As listeners hear the Christian radio broadcasts, may their spiritual ears be open and hearts receptive, so that the seeds of God's Word can take root and flourish in their lives. As a result, may many more North Koreans embrace His gracious gift of eternal salvation.
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