In this episode Issy discusses Surl Lee' She is a student journalist with us on a placement organised by the Oxford University Career Services. This article was edited using Gemini.
🎧 listen to Issy's backstory here - she discusses her motivation & research as well.
Issy also wrote a short 2 min read article about Surl Lee with a summary inforgraphic.
Surl Lee's Escape from North Korea and Life in the UK
Surl Lee, a part-time artist living in New Malden, a suburb of London known as "Little Korea," escaped from North Korea in 1998. He fled the country at the age of 16 and made a dangerous journey across the frozen Tumen River into China before eventually reaching South Korea. In South Korea, he studied Industrial Design in Seoul. Surl's escape from North Korea was motivated by his desire to be reunited with his mother, who also escaped.
Surl Lee's Artistic Journey
Surl Lee's art is influenced by his experiences and reflects his longing for his hometown. His work explores themes of identity, isolation, and the contrast between his life in North Korea and his new life in the UK. One of his notable pieces is a 3D painted sculptural masterpiece called "Turtle Ship," which depicts a Korean warship used against Japanese invaders in the 16th century.
North Korean Defectors and the Art Scene
Surl Lee is one of the many North Korean defectors who have settled in South Korea and other countries. The number of North Korean defectors living in South Korea is estimated to be around 20,000, with varying estimates of the number of defectors living in hiding in China. These defectors often face challenges in adjusting to their new lives and overcoming the cultural differences they encounter.
The North Korean Art Scene
North Korea has a state-sponsored art scene that promotes patriotic oil paintings and propaganda posters. The Mansudae art studio in Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, is known for producing such artwork. The embassy of North Korea in London has also showcased the work of artists-in-residence from the Mansudae art studio.
Conclusion
Surl Lee's escape from North Korea and his subsequent artistic journey reflect the challenges and experiences faced by many North Korean defectors. His art serves as a means of expressing his identity and longing for his hometown. The North Korean art scene, on the other hand, is characterized by patriotic and propagandistic artwork.
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