South Korea and North Korea became two different worlds after the World War II. Following the Korean War, South Korea got aligned with Western countries and North Korea adopted a communist regime.
At present due to their distinct political systems and economic structures, both countries are no longer akin.
With gradual exposure South Korean society got opened to global cultures and trends and are enjoying a high degree of personal freedom.
On the other hand, North Koreans are still subjected to strict government control. Their exposure to foreign cultures is minimal. With limited personal freedoms and less advanced infrastructure, their society is getting more rural and is under widespread poverty outside of Pyongyang, the capital.
K-pop, K-dramas, Fashion and cosmetic industries have prominently raised the living standard of a common South Korean, whereas North Korea is still struggling for the basic amenities of life.
let’s take a look at some dramas that give glimpses of the hard life of a common North Korean.
Crash Landing on You:
The drama showcases picturesque rural villages and the simple yet modest everyday life of North Korean villagers. Houses are traditional with a noticeable scarcity of modern amenities.
The drama emphasizes the strong sense of community and collectivism among villagers, under the constant military surveillance exerted by the state. It also shows, how people work together, share resources, and support each other under authoritarian regime. On the other side Pyongyang, the capital city, is depicted with its grandiose buildings and monuments, exhibiting the regime’s emphasis on the portrayal of strength and grandeur only.
The characters show kindness, empathy and respect towards each other and elders respectively, breaking the stereotypical image of North Koreans as merely oppressed or hostile.
Snowdrop:
“Snowdrop,” shows North Korea through the lens of a historical and politically charged narrative, set in the year 1987. It highlights the regime’s use of espionage operatives in South Korea to carry out covert missions during the Cold War.
The drama shows the intense control of regime over its citizens, especially those in sensitive positions. Characters from North Korea are shown to have a strong sense of loyalty to their country, driven by ideological indoctrination because of fear of retribution.
Spy:
“Spy” tells the story of a former North Korean agent living in South Korea who is forced back into espionage activities. The drama explores the tension between family loyalty and national duty. It also highlights the personal impact of political conflicts.
Curtain Call:
The “Curtain Call”, depicts North Korea through a blend of historical context, dramatic storytelling and personal narratives
The series includes flashbacks of the trauma experienced by the North Korean defectors.
Life in rural North Korea highlights the simplicity of life in the countryside. It also focuses on traditional Korean culture, the close-knit nature of village communities and the lack of resources faced by ordinary citizens.
The lives of the natives are depicted as being heavily influenced by the authoritarian state. How the limited freedoms and constant surveillance of the regime’s influence permeate into the daily life, work and personal relationships of the people.
Descendants of the Sun
In the “Descendants of the Sun”, North Korea is depicted through a specific plot and characters, though it is not the primary focus of the main plot yet the few scenes touch upon the tension between North and South Korea.
The scenes involving North Korea project a tense and hostile environment. They reflect the real-life political and military covert operations along with the standoff between the two countries.
Doctor Stranger:
The Korean drama “Doctor Stranger”, exhibits the reality of medical facilities in North Korea that are under-resourced and primitive as compared to South Korea. Despite this, Park Hoon (main lead) becomes a skilled surgeon, showcasing his talent and resourcefulness.
North Korean environment is depicted as harsh and oppressive especially, for those who do not belong to the elite. Even the medical staff is shown to be loyal to the state.
K-Drama in North Korea:
Consuming South Korean media is illegal in North Korea and one can be severely punished if caught.
Despite the risks, K-Dramas are being watched in North Korea. They are smuggled into North Korea through USB drives, DVDs, and other means. K-Dramas are a source of entertainment and a temporary escape for the people.
However, it is essential to recognize that the portrayal of North Korean life in K-Dramas is not an accurate or comprehensive representation of actual life in North Korea.
