State Media Review
A weekly analysis of North Korean state media
North Korea plans mid-year plenum likely to discuss corruption, warship debacle
An in-depth analysis of party meeting prep, anger at US designation and sensitivity to UN human rights criticism
May 23, 2025
Foreigners conspicuously absent as North Korea kicks off spring trade fair
An in-depth analysis of a not-so-international expo, rice farming appeals, criticism of Japan’s missile plans and more
May 16, 2025
North Korean denounces US exercise simulating nuclear attack on mainland
An in-depth analysis of criticism of ICBM defense drill, a DPRK weapons official’s promotion and May Day celebrations
May 9, 2025
North Korea fights to instill youth with ‘revolutionary spirit’ on army holiday
An in-depth analysis of guerrilla force celebrations, criticism of Japanese officials and anger at US ‘super squadron’
May 2, 2025
Seoul monitoring status of top North Korean officials amid extended absences
An in-depth analysis of possible leadership reshuffles, DPRK criticism of US weapons sales, accordion gifts and more
April 25, 2025
North Korea airs first new TV drama in years, as country celebrates Kim Il Sung
An in-depth analysis of prestige television about rural reform, Day of the Sun festivities, Syria ties and more
April 18, 2025
North Korea changes name of Pyongyang marathon to omit reference to Kim Il Sung
An in-depth analysis of the founding leader’s cult, praise for repatriations from Japan, ‘patriotic’ marriages and more
April 11, 2025
North Korean students kitted out with supplies as new academic year commences
An in-depth analysis of Kim Jong Un’s education policies, the DPRK’s first wildfire emergency alert and sporting success
April 4, 2025
North Korea raises alarm about wildfire risks amid devastation in ‘puppet Korea’
An in-depth analysis of fire prevention measures, ‘war criminal’ Japan, a boxing gold and a purge of term ‘North Korea’
March 28, 2025
North Korea denounces US airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels
An in-depth analysis of statement by Egypt envoy, more Freedom Shield criticism and yellow dust alerts
March 21, 2025
