Kim Jong Un was meant to be their only idol – then North Koreans discovered K-pop

Kim Jong Un Was Meant to Be Their Only Idol - Then North Koreans Discovered K-pop

Kim Jong Un was meant to be the sole idol of North Korean society, but the rise of K-pop has challenged this long-standing cultural monopoly. For many defectors, the discovery of South Korea’s vibrant music scene has brought a sense of freedom and joy that was once unimaginable. Lee Yeon-su, a former resident of the Hermit Kingdom, recalls how her first BTS concert in Busan was a turning point. "Kim Jong Un was meant to be the only idol we knew, but K-pop gave us a different kind of connection," she says, highlighting the emotional impact of the genre.

The Regime's Control Over Cultural Identity

North Korea’s government has historically controlled all forms of cultural expression, ensuring that Kim Jong Un remains the central figure in the lives of its citizens. Propaganda posters, state-run media, and school curriculums have long portrayed him as a symbol of national pride and devotion. However, the spread of K-pop through smuggled devices and underground networks has begun to erode this image. Hannah Oh, a 25-year-old defector, explains that "the regime tried to keep us from knowing anything outside of their narrative, but K-pop slipped through the cracks." The music's universal appeal has made it a powerful tool for young North Koreans to explore identity beyond the state's influence.

“Even before I escaped, I used to listen to K-pop songs on a hidden radio. It was like a secret rebellion,” Oh says. “Kim Jong Un was meant to be our only idol, but these artists reminded us of the joy of choice.”

The Quiet Revolution of K-pop in the North

While the North Korean government has not officially endorsed K-pop, its influence is undeniable. Teens in Pyongyang and other cities have begun to emulate the dance moves and fashion of South Korean idols, often without awareness of the political implications. Kang Gyu-ri, a defector who fled in 2023, describes how the group’s 2020 hit "Dynamite" became a phenomenon. "The song was different because it was in English, but the beat was so catchy that everyone wanted to dance," she recalls. "Kim Jong Un was meant to be the only idol, but K-pop made us feel alive."

Historically, North Korea’s cultural exports were limited to a single figure. The regime’s propaganda machine promoted Kim Jong Un as a revolutionary leader, often likening him to the sun or a savior. However, the emergence of K-pop has introduced a new dynamic. South Korean artists like BTS and Blackpink have not only gained popularity among defectors but also found traction in the North, where their music spreads through covert means. This shift has sparked debates about the role of art in shaping national identity and challenging authoritarian control.

“At first, I thought, 'Is this even a song?' But the way they danced and rapped was so infectious. Boys around me started mimicking them, and it felt like a small victory,” Gyu-ri adds. “Kim Jong Un was meant to be the only idol, but K-pop gave us something more—something personal.”

Defectors' Perspectives on K-pop's Impact

The psychological impact of K-pop on North Koreans is profound. For Lee Yeon-su, the genre represents a sense of belonging and joy that was once reserved for the elite. "K-pop isn’t just music—it’s a way to connect with others, to feel part of something bigger," she explains. Defectors like Oh and Gyu-ri have become cultural ambassadors, sharing their experiences of K-pop with those still in the North. This has created a ripple effect, with even state-approved media occasionally referencing the stars of the South.

Despite the regime’s efforts to maintain dominance, K-pop has become a subtle form of resistance. Its popularity among youth suggests a growing desire for autonomy in cultural preferences. While the North Korean government continues to promote Kim Jong Un as a symbol of strength, the quiet spread of K-pop indicates that the citizens are gradually rediscovering their own tastes. This phenomenon is not limited to music; it reflects a broader shift in how North Koreans perceive freedom and self-expression.