Unpacking North Korea’s Cultural Values: An Insider’s Perspective

North Korea has long been a country shrouded in mystery and intrigue. While many people know of its reputation as an isolated and tightly controlled dictatorship, few have a clear understanding of the cultural values that underpin its society.

As someone who has lived and worked in North Korea, I have gained firsthand insight into the country’s unique cultural values. In this article, I will explore some of the key values that shape North Korean society and shed light on the experiences I had during my time there.

Collectivism vs. Individualism

One of the most distinctive cultural values of North Korea is collectivism. The country places great emphasis on the needs and interests of the group, rather than the individual. This can be seen in everything from daily routines to national policies.

For example, the concept of “juche” – which translates to “self-reliance” – emphasizes the importance of each individual contributing to the greater good of society. The state places a strong emphasis on the success of collective projects, such as the construction of bridges and roads, and encourages citizens to work tirelessly towards these goals, even at the expense of their personal interests.

Contrast this with the Western emphasis on individualism, where personal freedoms and individual achievement tend to be highly valued. In North Korea, the well-being of the group trumps that of the individual.

A Strong Sense of National Identity

North Korea also places huge importance on national identity. The country has a strong sense of pride in its history, culture, and achievements, and glorifies its leaders as symbols of national strength and unity.

This sense of national identity is reflected in everything from the mandatory military service that all citizens must complete to the pervasive propaganda that dominates public spaces. The state prioritizes the preservation and promotion of national culture, often at the expense of modernization or global integration.

However, this rigid adherence to national identity can also lead to a sense of isolationism and suspicion towards outsiders. During my time in North Korea, I was always keenly aware of being an outsider, and was often treated with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion by locals.

The Role of the State in Daily Life

One of the most striking aspects of life in North Korea is the all-encompassing role of the state. The government essentially controls every aspect of life, from employment and housing to travel and personal relationships.

For example, the state assigns jobs and housing to citizens based on their perceived skills and loyalty. Travel within the country is severely restricted, and citizens must obtain permission to leave their local area, let alone travel abroad.

This pervasive presence of the state can be seen as both a strength and a weakness of North Korean society. On the one hand, it ensures stability and order, and ensures that all citizens have basic needs met. On the other hand, it can lead to a lack of individual freedom and choice, as citizens are expected to conform to the dictates of the state.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the cultural values that shape North Korean society is key to understanding the country as a whole. Collectivism, national identity, and state control are just a few of the key values that define this unique and enigmatic nation. While living and working in North Korea was often challenging and eye-opening, it also gave me a deep appreciation for the complexities and contradictions of this fascinating country.