Kim Jong-un’s ‘Friendly Parent’ Propaganda Song: Meet the Lyricist & North Korea’s Literary Machine
Seoul, South Korea – July 22, 2025 – In a fascinating glimpse into North Korea’s sophisticated propaganda apparatus, details are emerging about the origins of the viral song “Friendly Parent,” a musical ode to Kim Jong-un that has captivated – and concerned – observers worldwide. Yonhap News reports that Chosun Sinbo, the pro-North Korean newspaper based in Japan, has revealed the identity of the song’s lyricist and shed light on the unique system that fuels North Korea’s artistic output. This is a breaking news development with significant implications for understanding the regime’s control over information and its efforts to cultivate loyalty.
The Lyricist Behind the ‘Friendly Parent’ Phenomenon
Ahn Bun-hee, a 45-year-old North Korean citizen, is the name behind the lyrics that describe Kim Jong-un as a “great spirit leader” and a “friendly parent.” Her background isn’t that of a seasoned professional artist, but rather a product of North Korea’s “Middle School Literature Communications Institute.” This institute, as detailed by Yonhap, is a network of amateur writers drawn from various sectors – factories, farms, even schools – tasked with creating works that celebrate economic achievements and the lives of ordinary citizens. Ahn’s career progressed from this amateur beginning to roles as a vice president of the Pyongyang Boys’ Palace and the Social Patriotic Youth Central Committee, demonstrating a clear path for those who demonstrate loyalty through artistic expression.
A still from North Korean state television showing imagery related to the ‘Friendly Parent’ song.
North Korea’s Unique Literary Ecosystem
What sets North Korea apart isn’t just the content of its art, but the very structure of its creation. Professional organizations like the Chosun Writers’ Alliance Central Committee and Chosun Film Literature Creator directly oversee a network of correspondents, including individuals like Ahn Bun-hee. Successful works are published in state-controlled publications like the Literature Newspaper and ‘youth literature,’ ensuring a constant stream of pro-regime messaging. Crucially, the National Literature Communications Institute is organized annually, actively encouraging participation from all levels of society.
This system isn’t accidental. Experts believe it’s a deliberate strategy to prevent the infiltration of South Korean culture and reinforce allegiance to the Kim dynasty. By fostering a grassroots literary movement, the regime aims to control the narrative from the ground up. It’s a fascinating example of how art can be weaponized for political purposes, and a stark contrast to the principles of artistic freedom prevalent in many other parts of the world.
‘Friendly Parent’: From Song to Symbol
The song “Friendly Parent,” first released in April of last year, quickly gained notoriety, even becoming a sort of “meme” due to its upbeat melody and seemingly saccharine lyrics. However, its reach prompted action from South Korea’s Korea Communications Commission, which blocked domestic access to the song, deeming it illegal information under Article 44 7 of the Information and Communication Network Act. This highlights the sensitivity surrounding North Korean propaganda, even in seemingly innocuous forms like music. The song’s virality, ironically, underscores the power of propaganda to capture attention, even when intended to be critical or satirical.
Understanding the mechanics behind this propaganda – the individuals involved, the organizational structures, and the underlying motivations – is crucial for anyone following developments on the Korean peninsula. This isn’t simply about a catchy tune; it’s about a carefully constructed system designed to maintain power and control. For those interested in SEO and staying ahead of the curve on Google News, monitoring these developments is essential, as they often signal shifts in North Korean policy and messaging.
The story of “Friendly Parent” and Ahn Bun-hee offers a compelling window into the inner workings of North Korea’s cultural landscape. It’s a reminder that art, even in its most seemingly benign forms, can be a powerful tool for shaping perceptions and reinforcing political ideologies. As North Korea continues to evolve, understanding these mechanisms will be vital for navigating the complexities of the region and anticipating future developments.
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