In Chongjin, North Korea, intensified mobile phone inspections and body searches targeting young residents aim to suppress the influence of foreign culture perceived as a threat by the regime. Recent reports indicate that street enforcers organized by the Socialist Patriotic Youth League are conducting rigorous checks on all young people in the city.
The inspections are triggered by any South Korean language expressions found on the phones of those stopped on the streets. This crackdown extends beyond language to outfits, hairstyles, and lapel pins. Despite the government’s efforts to eliminate foreign culture, young people continue to engage with South Korean songs and dance styles in secret.
The strict measures have sparked resentment among the youth towards the state, with many feeling oppressed and targeted for harmless activities. As the government escalates its control, the opposition and defiance among the young population are on the rise, challenging the regime’s efforts to suppress external influences.