The Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF) announced that North Korean (DPRK) defector Eunhee Park will be sharing her powerful story when she delivers the festival keynote this October in Bangkok, Thailand.

Park’s appearance at ETF, which runs from October 22nd to 25th, will undoubtedly bring a profound human element to the event. Her journey illustrates what it means when movement becomes an act of defiance. This remarkable pathway from oppression to freedom is documented in Park’s book, The Courage to Die.

Courage against all odds

Park’s life is not a tale of elective adventure like that of other speakers but a testament to the extraordinary courage required for escape. Born and raised in one of the world’s most restrictive regimes, she chose to defect, risking imprisonment and even execution. Her escape meant leaving behind family and certainty for an uncertain existence outside the regime’s grip.

Ric Gazarian, ETF co-founder, emphasized, “Travel, at its core, is about freedom: freedom of movement, freedom of thought, freedom to choose your path. Eunhee’s story serves as a poignant reminder that for millions, such freedom remains unattainable. Her bravery exemplifies resilience at its highest level, and we are honored to feature her at ETF.”