Inside North Korea

The daily life of North Korean citizens is influenced by the Juche ideology, which teaches them that their lives are nurtured and legitimized by the leadership of the Kim dynasty. This ideological manipulation alters their individual identities and leaves little room for rights or freedom.

North Korean citizens are forced to obey the “The Workers’ Party’s Ten Principles of the Establishment of a Unitary Ideology System” and are required to memorize these principles, regarding them as the standard by which they must live their lives.

Criticizing the state is seen as a crime in North Korea because it can result in punishment for one’s entire family. This fear of repercussions prevents people from being skeptical of the state or making efforts to bring about change.

The defectors' stories from North Korea must remain anonymous to protect their family and friends back in North Korea, as criticizing the state can lead to punishment for one’s entire family.

It is difficult to get a clear picture of the daily lives of North Korean citizens because visits to the country are strictly limited and closely monitored, and statistics provided by the government are often manipulated for the government’s convenience.