North Korea's Government is a Dictator Socialist State. A little know fact today
is that Socialism is responsible for the deaths of more than 100 million people.
See this article, What Americans Must Know About Socialism to learn how.
Photographer Eric Lafforgue has
been to North Korea several times and has managed to smuggle out photos of contemporary
life. North Korea works hard to control its image as a modern and righteous
country. Lafforgues' shots, however, reveal a strikingly different reality. Here
are some photos showing a land the rest of the world rarely gets to see. Enjoy! :)
A Soldier Sleeping
This shot of a soldier sleeping on the side of the road is the one that Lafforgue claims got him banned from the country.
Even Capital City Pyongyang Looks Bleak
Since officials regulate everything, tourists are contained to one hotel and are not allowed to go off without a guide. Pyongyang, the capital city, maintains her buildings' exteriors but Lafforgue still managed to capture some of the bleaker looking buildings.
Soldiers Are Everywhere
Officials were not pleased when Lafforgue snapped this photo showing soldiers at ease. He was asked to delete it, a recurring theme throughout his trip.
Subways Are Also Bomb Shelters
The Internet Is Monitored
North Korea aspires to appear modern and were happy to show Lafforgue
students using computers. The reality, however, is that the internet
is limited to government-approved sites only, and international sites
are all blocked.
Outdated Plumbing Systems
Malnutrition Is A Common Sight
Strong Patriotism Is Enforced
Citizens are required to dress up and celebrate the Kimjongilia festival - a
public holiday that honors the country's Supreme Leaders.
More Children Than Cars On The Streets
Daily Power Outages And Shortages
Kim Il Sung And Kim Jong Il Images
Citizens are required by law to have framed photos of late leaders
Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong Il hanging in their homes, and are also
given a special towel to polish them with. You are also required
to bow when approaching their statues. Their images are everywhere.
Supermarkets Are Only For The Elite
While Most Locals Struggle To Find Food
Officials prefer that these sorts of images portraying poverty be deleted.
It goes against their continual efforts to appear as a happy, thriving nation.
You Can't Forget The Army
The army has a big presence and is portrayed as powerful, but a lot of the time
its soldiers are doing manual labor such as farming.
Endless Bus Lines
Public transport is hardly developed. Permits are required to travel between towns.
Sketchy Safety Standards
Children Used For Labor In Hard Times
Always Blame America
North Korea has a widespread hate for America. South Korea is considered
occupied by Americans, Americans are referred to as 'Imperialists' and
North Korea calls itself "Korea". The North Koreans blame American
embargo for a power failure at this gallery.
MORE Of LIFE IN NORTH KOREA
Share This With Your Friends! :)
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