North Korean state media this week spotlighted claims that Kim Il Sung freed women from “old feudal subjugation” and propagandized that women in the DPRK enjoy happiness and equality to the utmost thanks to the regime’s efforts.

While Pyongyang hasn’t declared total victory over COVID-19 yet, state media reported no new fever cases for six consecutive days this week. Multiple indoor events, youth mobilization and even soccer matches point to the continued relaxation of harsh anti-epidemic orders issued in May after state media announced the country’s first COVID outbreak.

Meanwhile, the Ministry