North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly visited the country’s first “computer arcade,” or internet cafe, with his daughter. The visit signals a major shift from North Korea’s earlier cautious stance toward this cultural trend, which began in South Korea. Kim and his daughter toured the internet cafe while inspecting the construction of key service facilities in Pyongyang’s Hwasong District.
According to South Korea’s Ministry of Unification and other sources, Kim’s visit to the computer arcade with his daughter at the end of the three months is considered unusual. It goes against North Korea’s long-held policy of rejecting what it calls reactionary ideology from South Korea. Analysts say the visit shows growing concern inside the regime that North Korea can no longer stay isolated as artificial intelligence (AI) spreads worldwide.
North Korea faces a dilemma as it tries to introduce new cultural elements to engage its youth while maintaining ideological control.
However, the regime has traditionally focused on blocking outside influences to prevent ideological loosening among young people, which could threaten the system. Recent laws, including the “Reactionary Ideology and Culture Rejection Act (2021),” the “Youth Education Guarantee Act (2021),” and the “Pyongyang Cultural Language Protection Act (2023).” aim to tighten control over youth and shut out foreign influence.
Kim’s direct visit to the internet cafe with his daughter has raised questions about whether the regime’s strict control over culture may have started to weaken.
North Korean internet cafes operate very differently from those in South Korea. Though available to both foreigners and residents, they often charge high fees. Most are reserved for high-ranking officials or foreign visitors rather than being open to the general public. Internet access is limited, and usage is restricted to certain social classes, starkly contrasting South Korean internet cafes.
