Researcher, Koreas

The role

The Researcher/Advocate will investigate and analyze human rights abuses in North Korea and advocate for an end to these abuses. The role also involves working to elevate human rights in South Korean foreign policy.

What you will do

• Research, monitor and document the human rights situation in North Korea
• Write and publicize reports, briefing papers, letters, news releases, op-eds, and submissions
• Assist in the development and implementation of local, regional, and international strategies
• Respond to queries from the media, public, and colleagues
• Assist in conducting fundraising
• Present human rights concerns to government officials, opinion leaders, inter-governmental agencies, and the media
• Work closely with non-governmental organizations and local human rights organizations
• Advance the Asia Division's work through research and advocacy projects
• Work with the Advocacy and Communications Department regarding the South Korean government
• Work collaboratively across HRW's programmatic divisions

Required qualifications

• An advanced (graduate) degree or equivalent experience in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or related studies
• A minimum of five years of professional-level experience working on North Korea
• Ability to identify, research, analyze and effectively communicate important human rights developments in North Korea
• Ability to conduct interviews safely remotely and in-person with a wide range of people
• Ability to conduct research through open-source techniques
• Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human rights law
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Korean
• Initiative and follow-through, capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent editing skills, and dynamic public speaking skills
• Interpersonal skills to work collaboratively within HRW and with external partners
• Ability to multi-task effectively, including strong planning and organizing skills, and ability to work under pressure
• Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events
• Valid South Korean work authorization

Nice to have

• Experience working in or knowledge of South Korea's civil society, media, parliament or government
• Knowledge of the South Korean foreign policy landscape

Benefits

• Competitive compensation

Before you apply

• Applicants for this role must possess valid South Korean work authorization
• Only complete applications will be reviewed
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• Applicants found using Generative AI to support their applications will be automatically disqualified

About the company

Human Rights Watch is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization known for its in-depth investigations and high-profile advocacy campaigns. The Asia Division is one of HRW's six regional research programs.