On November 21, North Korea’s state-run broadcaster Korean Central Television (KCTV) broadcast a recorded performance by the Samjiyon Band to commemorate Mother’s Day (November 16).
During the performance, “Hallelujah” from Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” was briefly played. This was unexpected for North Korea, as it is a religious piece dealing with the birth, suffering, and resurrection of Christ, with the “Hallelujah” part corresponding to the climax of the work. All organized religions in North Korea are practically prohibited.
The “Hallelujah” part was only broadcast for approximately six seconds and was inserted in the world masterpiece section, which included famous classics like Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet, and Ode to Joy. The title “Hallelujah” was clearly shown on the subtitles. Assuming that the performance went through several steps of censorship beforehand, it seems that the authorities approved its broadcast.
However, it is unlikely that the regime has released its restrictions on religion. One of the country’s slogans is to “secure the spirit of revolution with your life,” accepting no other form of devotion except exclusive loyalty to the Kim family. In a dynastic totalitarian system like North Korea, a regime cannot coexist with religion.
The performance of “Hallelujah” therefore seems to reflect an expansion of cultural diversity in North Korea. While the regime strengthens its control of the political sector, changes in the cultural sector are gradually occurring. A typical example is the Moranbong Band which is being referred to as North Korea’s female pop group.
It appears that the regime is aware that it is losing touch with the people using its old propaganda methods. In this context, the authorities may be trying to show some contemporary trends in the cultural sector, where change is relatively less risky. Kim Jong Un also seems to be more accepting of cultural changes. The fact that “Hallelujah” was only briefly played among the other classic works like Swan Lake, and is a famous masterpiece familiar to people apart from its religious content, lends more weight to this view.
“Hallelujah” means “to praise the Lord.” Although it is not clear if the band performers or the audience members are aware of the meaning, it is historic in itself that such a religious song was broadcast through Korean Central TV, an official state media channel.
