North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has recently cracked down on the use of certain Western words, including “ice cream,” “hamburger,” and “karaoke.” The move is part of his effort to reinforce North Korean culture and reduce foreign influence in the country.
Promoting Local Culture
Kim Jong Un believes that foreign words and practices, especially from Western countries and South Korea, threaten the nation’s cultural identity. By replacing these words with North Korean terminology, the government aims to strengthen its own traditions and values. For example:
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Hamburger → Dajin-gogi gyeopppang (double bread with ground beef)
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Ice cream → Eseukimo (Eskimo)
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Karaoke machines → On-screen accompaniment machines
These new names are being strictly taught to tour guides at the Wonsan beach resort, who must memorize them and use them with tourists.
Tight Control Over Foreign Influence
The ban reflects North Korea’s long-standing effort to limit exposure to foreign culture. Authorities believe that Western entertainment, language, and even food habits can erode loyalty to the regime. Reports indicate that people caught watching South Korean films or TV shows have faced extreme punishments, including execution.
Ideology Over Convenience
Kim Jong Un’s decision shows that ideology takes priority over convenience or global norms. Even everyday items like ice cream or hamburgers are seen as potential tools of cultural influence, and renaming them is intended to instill a sense of national pride and adherence to state-approved practices.
Rigorous Implementation
Tour guides are undergoing extensive training programs run by the Workers’ Party of Korea to ensure compliance. They must pass exams, memorize slogans, and use the official terms consistently when interacting with tourists.
About Kim Jong Un’s Rule
Kim Jong Un is the Supreme Leader of North Korea, taking power in 2011 after his father’s death. His leadership is authoritarian, with full control over the government, military, and society. He emphasizes Juche, or self-reliance, aiming to keep North Korea free from foreign influence. This explains his strict bans on Western words and culture.
Severe Punishments and Human Rights Violations
Under his rule, North Korea has become one of the most isolated and repressive regimes in the world. Harsh punishments, including imprisonment, forced labor, and even execution, are imposed for minor crimes or simply for consuming foreign media like South Korean TV shows. Kim Jong Un promotes his image as an infallible leader while keeping the country isolated from the outside world.
Also Read: WORLD NEWS: North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Bans Terms Like ‘Hamburgers’ and ‘Ice Cream’, Here’s Why
