South Korea Bans Viral North Korean Song
South Korea’s media regulator has decided to ban a popular North Korean song that gained traction on TikTok for violating the National Security Act. The song idolized Pyongyang’s leader Kim Jong Un as a “friendly father” and “great leader.”
Reason for Ban
The music video, which was released in April and went viral on TikTok, was deemed to violate the National Security Act of South Korea by idolizing and glorifying Kim Jong Un.
Regulatory Action
The Korea Communications Standards Commission in Seoul stated that the song’s 29 versions will be blocked, following a request from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service. Access to North Korean government websites and media has also been restricted under the Security Act.
Public Reaction
Despite the ban, some South Koreans expressed a desire for the song to remain accessible, viewing it as a source of humor and entertainment.
Song Description
The song, titled “Friendly Father,” portrays Kim Jong Un as a beloved figure, using terms like “great leader” and “friendly father” to describe him. The catchy tune has drawn comparisons to pop songs produced by North Korea’s propaganda machine over the past five decades.
Background
North and South Korea have been divided since the end of the Korean War in 1953, with no formal peace treaty signed between the two nations.