North Korea’s propaganda: Chongryon and Pak Ku Ho
The CCD continues its series on propaganda in North Korea. A key part of North Korea’s propaganda efforts is the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan (Chongryon) and its leader, Pak Ku Ho.
This organization, representing North Koreans living in Japan, was founded in 1955 and is fully controlled by North Korea’s special services. Chongryon plays a major role in promoting North Korea’s official Juche ideology and keeping cultural ties with the DPRK.
Since Japan and North Korea do not have diplomatic relations, Chongryon acts as North Korea’s unofficial embassy in Japan and even provides consular services. Before international sanctions, Chongryon was a significant source of funding for the North Korean regime through remittances from its members.
Through numerous cultural events and activities organized by Chongryon, as well as a network of schools run by the Association, the DPRK spreads its political and cultural messages. The russian federation uses similar methods by setting up “russian houses” around the world to promote its propaganda abroad.
