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The Confession They Demand

from: Portrait Image of Person Ri Yong-hwanRi Yong-hwan    to: Portrait Image of Person Yeon-seoYeon-seo    Marker Icon for the Link to the Citymap
The image shows two men sitting on the floor of a dimly lit room with a barred window. Both men are wearing suits. The man in the foreground is sitting with his knees drawn up, looking contemplative, while holding a cigarette. The light from the window casts strong shadows across the room's concrete walls, creating a dramatic and moody atmosphere. The second man sits further back, partially obscured by shadows, and appears to be staring towards the window. The overall tone of the image is somber and introspective.


My dearest Yeon-seo,

They know.

I have been summoned. Questioned. Stripped down not just in body but in soul. They demanded your name. Over and over. With words at first. Then with fists. Then with things I do not wish to describe.

I have not given it. Not yet.

You must understand why I let you go so suddenly. It was not because I ceased to love you. It was because the Party discovered us, and silence was the only shield I had left to offer you.

But the walls are closing in. My silence grows heavier each day. My body weaker. I do not know how much longer I can hold out.

If you are still anywhere near Pyongyang—leave. Disappear so completely that even memory cannot find you.

I cannot protect you anymore.

Yours in what remains of me,

Ri Yong-hwan

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