North Korea has long been known as one of the darkest places in the world. Much of our understanding comes from the images we get from mainstream media and the country’s own self-produced propaganda images, including lavish military parades of nuclear missiles and the people’s slavish loyalty to dictator Kim Jong-un. The insightful documentary “Having Fun in Pyongyang” seeks to deepen our understanding of everyday life in the country by focusing on the lives of Pyongyang’s citizens.
Shot over eight years, the film documents an evolving North Korea whose people bravely endured endless conflict and uncertainty. There has been a real estate boom in the capital, Pyongyang. Tall buildings dot the impressive skyline. Playgrounds, amusement parks, and other entertainment are everyday activities.
Similar to the rest of the world, marriage and career are the dominant and defining goals. Traditional social hierarchies are being challenged and arranged marriages are not as common as they were a few years ago. The culture seems to have embraced the concept of consumerism, with the newly affluent now enjoying good food and other cultural perks. Some homes are equipped with full-featured computers, and millions of citizens use cell phones.
Patriotism continues to drive the nation’s manufacturing industry. The filmmakers visit a shoe factory that is replicating popular fashions from around the world while growing its own stock of imports. This is especially important as the country has been at the crossroads of international sanctions.
Signs of the propaganda persist across the country. Public schools focus on instilling the unconditional devotion of the country’s past and present rulers. Cameras are prohibited from filming many aspects of North Korean society, including any activity involving the military. But wherever documentary cameras roam — whether it’s a family reunion in the park or a group of friends enjoying an evening at the bowling alley — we’re up against people whose hopes and dreams are no different from ours.
Having fun in Pyongyang is a vivid description of the region that has inspired much speculation from outsiders around the world, but little first-hand knowledge.
Directed by: Pierre-Olivier Francois
