Full Breakdown
Pro-North Korea Nonprofit Nodutdol Gains Attention in the U.S.
2/22/2026, 2:28:22 AM
Overview of Nodutdol's Activities
Nodutdol, a nonprofit organization founded in 1999 by Queens politician John Choe, is gaining traction in the United States with its pro-North Korea stance. Operating from Midtown Manhattan, the group claims to promote "US-Korean understanding and education," yet it has been criticized for radicalizing American leftists against U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding North Korea and South Korea. The organization has organized events such as the "People’s Summit for Korea" and the "US Out of Korea Conference," where attendees have expressed support for North Korea's political system.
Key Figures and Affiliations
John Choe, who has faced scrutiny for his North Korean affiliations, leads Nodutdol. The organization includes notable figures such as university professors and film directors among its directors. Haruki Eda, a sociology professor at the University of Colorado and a member of Nodutdol, has controversially praised North Korea's election system, describing it as a "community-based grassroots way" of selecting leaders. Nodutdol is part of a broader network of organizations linked to tech millionaire Neville Roy Singham, which includes the People’s Forum and Code Pink, both of which have been associated with Chinese influence operations.
Financial and Operational Insights
Nodutdol's financial transparency raises questions, as it reported only $55,000 in revenue in its last tax filing and does not disclose its membership numbers. The organization hosts various events, including fundraisers and cultural celebrations, aimed at promoting its agenda. Recently, it has aligned itself with anti-ICE sentiments, asserting that the violence perpetrated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is connected to the historical violence faced by Koreans due to U.S. intervention.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Nodutdol, including analysts like Stu Smith from the Manhattan Institute, argue that the organization poses a risk by promoting North Korean ideology in the U.S. Smith noted that the group's activities range from innocuous cultural events to explicit political messaging that undermines American interests. The State Department has reportedly been investigating Singham's network, which raises concerns about the influence of such organizations on American society.
Official Statements and Responses
Nodutdol has not publicly responded to inquiries regarding its activities and affiliations. The organization continues to assert its mission of advocating for the end of the U.S.-South Korea alliance and the reunification of North and South Korea, despite the controversies surrounding its operations.
What's Next for Nodutdol?
As Nodutdol continues to gain visibility, its future activities and potential impact on U.S. foreign policy and public perception of North Korea remain to be seen. The ongoing scrutiny from government agencies and the media may influence its operations and public engagement strategies in the coming months.
