Study

Having grown up in a politically-conscious household, I began to care deeply about social issues and justice from a young age. At the age of 15, I came across a documentary about life in North Korea. Intrigued, I continued reading over the coming years, finding the human rights situation within the country deeply concerning and also growing to find North Korea's unique political system highly interesting. In 2023, I began studying for my Masters in North Korean Studies at the University of Central Lancashire. Modules I completed include "Divided Nations: Disputes, Violence and Conflict", "Explaining Inter-Korean Relations", "Anthropology of the Asia Pacific" and "History, Politics and International Relations in North Korea".

Having also completed a degree in Media and Communications, I combine my interests in political theory, international relations and human rights with an understanding of how the media can be manipulated by the North Korean (as well as any other) state to fulfill its own ends in both domestic and international propaganda such as in pro-DPRK "friendship groups". At the time of writing, I am currently completing my dissertation on advancing the rights of those with disabilities in North Korea.

I am currently looking for employment opportunities. If you would like to get connected, feel free to email me at jakobbencotton@gmail.com or connect with me on LinkedIn.