ladbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

North Koreans Warned Not To Copy South Korean Or European Culture

North Koreans Warned Not To Copy South Korean Or European Culture

Those found in breach of the rules face severe harsh punishments including the death penalty

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

Young people in North Korea have been warned that they shouldn't use slang from South Korea or they could face severe penalties.

North Korea's official newspaper has warned younger residents to only use North Korea's standard language as part of a new law that aims to crack down on foreign influence in the country.

As well as being told to stick to the North Korean language, the country has also warned the younger generation not to copy the fashions, music or hairstyles seen in South Korea.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in.
PA

Those found in breach of the new rules could be hit with jail time or even the death penalty, the BBC reports.

The Rodong Sinmun newspaper wrote: "The ideological and cultural penetration under the colourful coloured signboard of the bourgeoisie is even more dangerous than enemies who are taking guns."

It went on to claim that the Korean language based on the Pyongyang dialect is better than other variations and urged people to use it correctly.

The article continued: "When the new generations have a sound sense of ideology and revolutionary spirits, the future of a country is bright. If not, decades-long social systems and revolution will be perished.

"That is the lesson of blood in the history of the world's socialist movement."

North Korea has also outlawed what it refers to as 'reactionary thought and culture via illicit material from the South, the US and Japan'.

PA

Meaning, those found in possession of media from those countries could face up to 15 years in a labour camp, while anyone found distributing such materials is open to even harsher punishments, including the execution.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reportedly referred to the K-pop culture as a 'vicious cancer' and fears it could corrupt residents.

Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies, told the Korea Herald: "Kim... is well aware that K-pop or western culture could easily permeate through the younger generation and have a negative impact on the socialist system.

"He knows that these cultural aspects could impose a burden on the system. So by stamping them out, Kim is trying to prevent further trouble in the future."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: World News, North Korea