Korean Literature

The North Korean Literature works a major role for the promotion of the policy of communism. The doctrine of Kim Il-Sung says that the art of North Korea should promote the cause of 'Communist Revolution'. The writers therefore are encouraged to create 'Revolutionary works' and support the State and Party of North Korea. According to the rulers of the North Korea, the writers should concentrate on the theory of 'Art for Society's Sake' rather than 'Art for Art's Sake'. The North Korean Literature has played a vital role in manipulating and educating the society since the World War II. The writers are impelled to write in an authoritarian ambiance where the writer may even be sentenced to death if he/she is found 'guilty' of not abiding by the policies of the State.

A few of the instances of the North Korean Literature can be mentioned in this respect. One of them is the series of historical novels - Pulmyouui yoksa (Immortal History). This series tells of the heroic deeds and tragedy of the pre-liberation era. The Korean War has been glorified in the themes of books like 'The Burning Island' and 'Korea Fights'.

The State policy of North Korea encourages to preserve the best works from the past of Korea. Henceforth, the medieval vernacular masterpieces like the Sasong kibong (Encounter of Four Persons) and the Ssangch'on kibong (Encounter at the Two Rivers) have been selected to be reprinted in the North Korea press.

The Korean Literature is inclined towards telling stories that deal with the common folk. To promote this policy, the folk tale like 'The Tale of Chun Hyang' about a nobleman who marries a servant girl has been selected to be screened in films.