A 'fax and prayer' campaign for North Korean refugees in China will take place next week, coinciding with the International Week of Prayer for North Korea.

On June 19-25, Open Doors USA on behalf of the North Korea Freedom Coalition will head the Fax and Pray Campaign to Save North Korean Refugees, during which participants can fax a letter to Zhou Wenzhong, Chinese Ambassador to the United States, to protest the "systematic and violent repatriation" of thousands of North Korean refugees by the Chinese government.

"This is another way we can advocate on behalf of those who have no status or freedoms, including the freedom of religion," says Open Doors USA Advocacy Coordinator Lindsay Vessey. "Join North Korea Freedom Coalition members in protesting the inhuman treatment of North Korean refugees."

Thousands of North Koreans have fled to China escaping the miserable conditions under the regime of Kim Jong Il with hopes of ultimately reaching the safety of South Korea. However, China has been "picking up and repatriating about 400-500 people a week" since the beginning of 2005 according to an American aid worker who heads an organization which assists refugees. The repatriated North Koreans face immediate execution of life or torture and imprisonment for their crime of leaving the country, according to Christian watchdog Open Doors USA.

Among the activities during the campaign week include prayer vigils, protests and special screenings of documentaries like Seoul Train, and other activities.

The Fax and Pray Campaign to Save North Korean Refugees coincides with the Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) sponsored International Week of Prayer for North Korea on June 18-25.

For more information visit: members.opendoorsusa.org/nkfaxcampaign and www.nkfreedom.org.