Jang Jung-hyuk
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1997 (age 28–29)
- MMA fighter
- Martial arts fighter
- Human rights activist
Jang Jung-hyuk | |
|---|---|
| Born | Jang Jung-hyuk 1997 (age 28–29) |
| Other names | Jang Jung-hyuck |
| Occupations |
|
| Years active | 2018 - present |
Jang Jung-hyuk (Korean: 장정혁; born 1997) is a North Korea defector and professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter based in South Korea, where he is now a citizen.[1][2] Known by the nickname "North Korean Defector Fighter," he competes in the lightweight and welterweight divisions and has become a prominent public figure through his advocacy for North Korean human rights.[1][3]
Jang was born in a remote mountain village in North Hamgyeong Province during the height of the "Arduous March" famine.[1] His early childhood was marked by severe hunger and the absence of his father, who his mother left shortly after Jang's birth due to domestic abuse.[1][4]
At a young age, Jang and his mother fled to China to escape starvation.[1] For several years, they lived as undocumented migrants, during which time Jang was subjected to forced labor at construction sites and chicken farms.[1] He frequently worked without pay and lived in constant fear of repatriation before eventually reaching South Korea as a teenager.[1]
Career
Mixed Martial Arts
Jang began training in martial arts at age 18 in Seoul, initially as a way to cope with psychological trauma. He made his professional debut in March 2018.[1] Jang made his professional debut in March 2018 at TFC Dream 5, where he secured a technical knockout (TKO) victory against Japanese fighter Yamato Nishikawa.[5][1]
In July 2024, Jang reached a career peak by capturing the welterweight title in the Japanese organization A-Toys Challenge Fight (ACF).[1] He also holds a South Korean kickboxing title.[1] His professional MMA record stands at 6 wins, 5 losses, and 3 draws.[1] His most recent recorded about was a decision loss against Hyun Bin-park at Fighter100 - Club 002 on November 29, 2024.[1]
Personal life
In late 2025, Jang announced the opening of his own MMA gym in Seoul, aiming to provide a training space for aspiring athletes and fellow defectors.[1] He often speaks about the "freedom with responsibility" he found in South Korea, contrasting it with the "dictatorship and pain" of his early life.[1][6]