PRESS CONFERENCE

A defector diplomat exposes North Korea's regime
Lee Ilkyu, Former Counsellor, The Embassy of DPRK to Cuba 

14:00-15:00 Thursday, October 9, 2025
Language: The speech and Q & A will be in Korean with English interpretation.

Lee Il Gyu, a former senior North Korean diplomat who defected to South Korea in November 2024, will speak at the FCCJ about life inside Pyongyang's diplomatic corps, his personal encounters with Kim Jong Un, and why he chose to break with the regime.

Lee served two terms at the DPRK Embassy in Cuba, rising to the position of political affairs counsellor. During this time, he witnessed both official diplomacy and clandestine fundraising operations linked to Pyongyang's nuclear program. His perspective sheds light on the double lives North Korean envoys are forced to lead as poorly paid representatives of the state, often resorting to smuggling or other means to survive abroad.

Since arriving in Seoul, Lee has been outspoken in his criticism of the Kim government, accusing it of prioritizing nuclear weapons over the welfare of its people. He has described growing disillusionment among North Korea’s impoverished citizens, particularly given the signs of privilege the ruling family displays, such as the public appearances of Kim's daughter in expensive outfits.

At the FCCJ, Lee will also discuss North Korea's foreign policy toward the United States and Japan, his assessment of Kim's leadership, and what prospects he sees for change in the regime.

How to attend: 
Please register by emailing front@fccj.or.jp with your name and the name of your media outlet. FCCJ members should also include their membership number. Doors will open 15 minutes before the event.

How to watch online: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCCJchannel/live  

How to ask questions: https://forms.gle/XSXvR2dnWvPfMfVC8  

TV crew: Please make a reservation at front@fccj.or.jp. Doors open for TV crews only at 30 minutes before the event. FCCJ will limit live-streaming of FCCJ-hosted press conferences to Club members only. Non-members will no longer be permitted to live-stream these events. However, non-members may still film for reporting purposes and use footage after the press conference.

Professional Activities Committee