Kim Jong-un and co. like Squid Game, apparently – just not for the same reasons you do
North Korea has come out to criticise the hit Netflix show Squid Game, claiming that it shows South Korea’s “beastly” capitalist nature and “corrupt” society.
A North Korean propaganda website called Arirang Meari indirectly applauded the show for apparently depicting what they perceive to be a place where “corruption and immoral scoundrels are commonplace.”
The unidentified author went on to say that: “Squid Game makes people realize the sad reality of the beastly South Korean society in which human beings are driven into extreme competition, and their humanity is wiped out” – using the loose premise of the show to criticise their neighbours.
The Korean language show recently became Netflix’s most-watched series of all time, capturing people’s imaginations around the world – and while the North has praised the drama, it’s clear it isn’t for the same reason everyone else currently is.
The Supreme Leader and those within his regime have made no secret of their distaste towards South Korean pop culture, with Kim Jong labelling it a “vicious cancer” and his administration even comparing the K-Pop music genre as similar to “slave-like exploitation“.
Earlier this year, the surveillance state took steps to try and root out any capitalist tendencies in its own society by introducing a ban on skinny jeans and mullets. These were just some modern staples that North Korea deems as Western, consumerist trends; there are now just 15 legal haircuts that are permitted by law.
Related links:
- North Korea warns young people against using slang from the South
- Schools warns parents not to let their kids watch Squid Game
- New interactive battle royale is Black Mirror meets Squid Game
