Publications on religious themes produced in North Korea predominantly convey the official stance of the state, which is significantly molded by the unique Juche ideology, advocating for self-reliance, as well as the country’s commitment to secularism and atheism. Such literature probably derives from publications produced by State-Controlled Publishing Houses, as well as ideological writings and texts that may have been written by Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-il, or Kim Jong-un.
The portrayal of religion is not always unfavorable. Numerous cultural publications highlight the spiritual heritage of North Korea. The key question we should consider is: how is religion portrayed in the literature of North Korea, and does it always carry negative implications?
This study will aim to demonstrate that the North Korean press does not always depict religion as a danger for the leadership of the Korean Worker’s Party but may be also a catalyst for the development of the economy of North Korea.
SPEAKER:
Nicolas Levi, PhD
Assistant Professor
Section for the Study of Cultures along the Silk Road
Department of Modern Cultures of Asia and Africa
Institute of Mediterranean and Oriental Cultures Polish Academy of Sciences
DATE & TIME: Apr 22, TUESDAY, 3:00-5:30PM (GMT+8)
VENUE: Online via UP KRC Facebook & YouTube Live
HOSTS: UP KRC, UP Tacloban College
This event is online and open to the public.