Culture
Information related to the North Korean culture and culture in North Korea
North Korea airs first new TV drama in years, as country celebrates Kim Il Sung
An in-depth analysis of prestige television about rural reform, Day of the Sun festivities, Syria ties and more
April 18, 2025
The Pyongyang marathon’s new name, and the death of a North Korean commando
NK News’ Chad O’Carroll joins the podcast to discuss inconsistent Kim Il Sung propaganda, Trump budget cuts and more
April 17, 2025
Ask a North Korean: What is one item you wished you could have brought with you?
A defector writes about her memories of loved ones and what she regrets leaving behind that still impacts her today
Kim Jong Un sends $2M to Japan for education of pro-DPRK youth: State media
North Korean leader’s annual donation to Chongryon aims to secure loyalty amid declining youth interest in regime
April 14, 2025
North Korea boasts of Mount Paektu’s UNESCO designation as Global Geopark
Recognition boosts Pyongyang’s efforts to promote mountain as both geological treasure and sacred symbol of Kim dynasty
April 14, 2025
North Korea changes name of Pyongyang marathon to omit reference to Kim Il Sung
An in-depth analysis of the founding leader’s cult, praise for repatriations from Japan, ‘patriotic’ marriages and more
April 11, 2025
Beyond the finish line: Foreign runners reflect on rare journey to North Korea
Participants in Pyongyang marathon share impressions of a ‘modern’ city and ‘curious’ people after first race in 6 years
April 11, 2025
Book review: ‘Hidden Heroes’ offers rare glimpse into North Korean fiction
New anthology brings ten translated short stories from the DPRK, showcasing struggles and triumphs of everyday citizens
April 10, 2025
Cuts to US-funded broadcasters risk silencing key sources for North Korea
As Voice of America and Radio Free Asia face major cuts, questions grow over whether Seoul will step in
April 9, 2025
Return of the Pyongyang marathon and North Korea’s military drills targeting ROK
NK News’ Colin Zwirko talks first edition of marathon since before pandemic and Kim Jong Un overseeing attack exercises
April 8, 2025
