Recent North Korean media reports claim that flood victims from areas near the Yalu River are enjoying a pleasant stay in Pyongyang, thanks to the generosity of Kim Jong Un and the Workers’ Party of Korea. However, sources from within the country paint a starkly different picture.
A resident of North Pyongan province revealed that when people still at the flood sites called their friends who had been taken to Pyongyang, expecting to hear about their good fortune, they were shocked by the response. “We’re on pins and needles, physically and mentally,” was the unexpected reply.
The reality for these “fortunate” visitors to Pyongyang is far from the portrayed image of comfort and care. Their daily schedule is rigidly controlled, reminiscent of military life. While they receive better food than usual, they are constantly pressured to express gratitude to the party. Exhausting schedules with mandatory study sessions and field trips leave them physically drained. Worries about their damaged homes and possessions left behind cause sleepless nights.
Many of these relocated flood victims privately expressed that they would prefer to return home, even if it meant eating more simple food while rebuilding their houses. However, they are required to maintain a facade of happiness and gratitude.
Questionable approach to helping flood victims
This approach to disaster management raises questions about the North Korean leadership’s priorities. Instead of focusing on practical recovery efforts and accepting international aid, the regime has chosen to use this disaster as a propaganda opportunity. They’ve even gone so far as to organize a “water play show” with flood victims as participants.
The Workers’ Party’s efforts to control people’s thoughts and actions to maintain power are evident, but the reasoning behind these tactics remains perplexing. In North Korea today, the party stifles all forms of dissent and resistance from the people. While they claim to be helping flood victims, the core issue appears to be systematically manipulating people’s thinking.
For three generations, the Kim family has maintained power by claiming credit for liberating the country, all while building their wealth and influence. Now, they’re shifting the blame for the flood damage to local officials. This raises questions about their responsibility for the country’s ongoing challenges stemming from their rigid and authoritarian rule.
The regime’s approach of offering “sugar-coated” policies to flood victims in Pyongyang is an apparent attempt to boost loyalty. However, it’s doubtful whether such tactics will genuinely increase support among the populace.
What’s crucial in this situation is the perspective of ordinary North Koreans. People should critically examine why Kim Jong Un and his government implement these policies. More importantly, they need to consider how to secure a better future for themselves and their families within this challenging environment.
This situation underscores the need for North Koreans to find ways to voice their concerns and aspirations, even in the face of severe restrictions on free expression.
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