According to a recent report, North Korea is expanding the list of crimes subject to capital punishment in the country. The new offences interestingly address uncouth behavior. These new capital offences include illicit video screenings, distributing South Korean content, and smuggling across borders, an escalating crackdown fueled by the rise of foreign information in the hermit kingdom.
Conflict-fueled trading, economic decline and several other factors have promoted the flow of outside info into North Korea, subtlely influencing societal changes. As a result, the regime is ramping up efforts to cut off its people from these foreign influences.
By increasing offenses punishable by death, Kim Jong Un’s regime seeks to solidify its control. Steps have also been taken to limit the influence of foreign films and music, punish use of unregistered foreign communication devices, and guard against hallyu, or the global popularity of South Korean culture. Kim Jong Un has reportedly referred to the influx of foreign culture as a ‘vicious cancer.’
Further, capital punishment is not just used to warn off potential law-breakers. It is also utilized as an instrument to foster fear and secure obedience to the regime. It’s important to note that North Korea was already known for its stringent and harsh punishments even before this expansion. But the recent move highlights how severely the country views these new ‘crimes,’ hinting at the deep-seated fear of losing control over the populace by the North Korean regime.
