North Korea

North Korea’s ruling ideology, Kimilsungism-Kimjongilism, treats religion as an existential threat. Punishments for defying draconian religious restrictions include forced labor, prison, torture, and execution. North Korean refugees in China face severe punishment upon repatriation if they engage in religious activities, including contact with Christian missionaries and NGOs. Authorities harshly punish traditional shamanistic practices and youth caught engaging in religious activities.