The Role of Propaganda in ShapingNorth Korean Society and its Global Perception
- Mar 27, 2025
- 3 min read
By: Sehar Warraich
North Korea is one of the most isolated and closed societies on the globe. One of the primary tools used to ensure that it remains this way and is kept under their control is the extensive use of propaganda. Propaganda is the primary means of affecting North Korean society, both its citizens within the country and worldwide perceptions of the country. Through well-crafted messages, the North Korean government creates the image of a unified, prosperous, and invincible state led by the ruling Kim dynasty.
Internationally, the state of North Korea uses propaganda to maintain control over its citizens. It promotes a utopian idea of the Kim dynasty, and the leaders are portrayed as benevolent rulers. From the country's founding father, Kim Il-sung, to his successor Kim Jong-il, and grandson Kim Jong-un, the state has constructed a cult of personality around its leaders. The leaders' faces are omnipresent, and their words are scripture. The citizens are often forced to demonstrate unflinching loyalty and commitment to the government, and opposition is strictly dealt with. The media controlled by the state continually upholds the view that the Kim family is above reproach and that the only way for North Korea to exist is by their leadership.
The government also uses propaganda to promote national pride and superiority. The "juche" ideology story, which talks of self-reliance and independence, is central to North Korea's propaganda. It portrays North Korea as a proud and independent country, which can resist outside pressure, particularly from the United States and South Korea. This is encouraged through educational materials, state-controlled news outlets, and public events such as mass games and military parades. Propaganda is used to reinforce the glorification of the country's military achievements, particularly its nuclear aspirations, and the promotion of a sense of national identity and resistance to foreign influence.
Externally, North Korean propaganda is also employed as a tool for shaping world opinions. The state has often used exaggerated words to portray itself as a powerful and fair state that resists the imperialist forces. Internationally, the regime tries to project itself as the defender of its sovereignty against the West, and specifically the United States, which it calls at times the "Great Satan" with some regularity. However, despite the regime's effort to establish a certain narrative, the international perception of North Korea remains largely negative, particularly due to its record of human rights abuses, authoritarian nature, and nuclear ambitions. Independent news organizations and defectors have attempted to reveal the truth about life in North Korea. They provide a harsh contrast to the rosy scenario portrayed by the regime.
In summary, North Korea's propaganda plays an integral role in formulating the state's internal and international narratives. Not only does propaganda ensure control of the state itself, but also that it's a means for determining the perspective through which the world sees North Korea. No matter how prolific the propaganda machinery of the state, however, the reality about the conditions in North Korea sneak in and portray a less complex, less salacious truth.
Works Cited
"North Korean Propaganda: Understanding the Methods and Impact." The National Interest, 25 Oct. 2022,
"North Korea's Propaganda Machine." BBC News, 2 Oct. 2021,
Snyder, Scott. North Korea: Markets and Military Rule. Westview Press, 2013.
"The Guardian." North Korea's Propaganda Art – in Pictures, 20 Aug. 2017,
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