North Korea's Christians face uncertain future under next leader

Release International is calling on Christians to express their solidarity with persecuted believers in North Korea next month.

It is holding a day of worship, prayer and testimony on November 6 to highlight the plight of Christians in the reclusive communist country.

One of the main speakers at the conference is a Christian man who defected from North Korea. He will address delegates on the difficulties faced by Christians there.

With current leader, Kim Jong-il, lining up his son to be his successor, it is not certain whether a change of leadership will improve the situation of Christians, who face arrest, imprisonment, torture and even death for their faith.

"The eyes of the world are currently on North Korea - one of the world's worst abusers of religious freedom," said Release.

"Christians are treated without mercy. Up to three generations of Christian families are rounded up and thrown in prison camps to try to eliminate the faith.

"The nation is now grooming its next leader. But the question is, will Kim Jong-un finally put an end to his country's policy of ruthless persecution?"

The conference will also hear testimonies from persecuted Christians in Sri Lanka and Eritrea, while a former missionary to China will explain the challenges experienced by unregistered churches there.

Release said the conference was a chance for Christians in the UK to stand with persecuted believers around the world "in spirit" and to be "encouraged by the vitality of their faith".

It said: "We can learn so much about overcoming faith from our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world."