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Deep Dive: Camp 14: Total Control Zone (2012)

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Camp 14: Total Control Zone
Camp 14: Total Control Zone is a documentary that focuses on Shin Dong-hyuk, who was born and raised in the Kaechon internment camp, known as Camp 14, in North Korea. The film features interviews with Shin, where he recounts the human rights abuses he suffered and witnessed, including the public execution of his mother and brother. The narrative is supported by animated sequences that visualize his experiences within the camp. In addition to Shin's perspective, the film includes interviews with a former commander of the guards at Camp 22 and an ex-secret policeman. Both individuals confess to committing crimes such as torture, rape, and murder, providing further context to the brutal conditions in North Korean labor camps. The film presents a stark view of life in these camps and the systemic violations of human rights that occur there.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Shin Dong-hyuk, a rare North Korean defector.
  • •See the brutal realities of life in Camp 14.
  • •Find out about crimes committed by camp guards.

Did You Know

•Shin Dong-hyuk was born in Camp 14, a North Korean internment camp.
•The film includes the public execution of Shin's mother and brother.
•In 2015, Shin changed parts of his story about his time in Camp 14.
•The documentary features interviews with a former guard from Camp 22.

Perfect For

Human rights advocatesNorth Korean historyDocumentary enthusiasts