Kim Tae-san, Standing Representative of the National Alliance for Togetherness between North and South   

Although this article is quite long, it is written by someone who has directly experienced both systems, comparing the North and the South. I hope readers will take the time to read it and consider the pros and cons of each side for themselves.

First, North Korea is a country where foreigners are rarely seen, except for some embassy officials in Pyongyang and defectors. In the past, there were many ethnic Chinese who came from China, and they lived prosperously by trading and engaging in intelligence activities, even crossing between North Korea and China during the "Arduous March." While doing so, they often mocked North Korean residents. Eventually, North Korea expelled all of them and blocked their entry. Today's North Korea is a relatively "clean" country, free of foreigners.

In contrast, South Korea is the opposite. It accepts Chinese citizens visa-free and legalizes undocumented immigrants. There are even projections that Chinese nationals will soon constitute over 10% of South Korea's population. We can already see Chinese individuals acting like they own the place in various parts of South Korean society.

Second, in North Korea, there are no organizations or forces engaging in anti-state or anti-government activities. This is because, starting in the mid-1960s, political prison camps were established to thoroughly purge individuals who opposed the Workers' Party's policies. As a result, it appears politically "stable."

However, South Korea is different. There are forces loyal to North Korea and China, and politicians and intellectuals who deny the existence of the Republic of Korea are present everywhere. There are even cases among presidents, ministers, and members of the National Assembly who deny the nation's identity.

Third, there is almost no espionage activity in North Korea. This is due to mutual surveillance among residents and strict restrictions on movement. Although there was a spy network previously established by South Korea, North Korea has largely uncovered it with the help of left-leaning governments. Chinese spies also disappeared after the expulsion of Chinese nationals. North Korea is the country with the fewest spies on Earth.

Conversely, South Korea is the country with the most spies. It is perceived as a "strange country" where North Korean and Chinese spies can operate freely.

Fourth, there is no religion in North Korea. This is because the state strictly suppresses religion. While some claim there are underground churches in North Korea, the author believes these are merely exaggerations for self-justification.

In South Korea, in addition to the three major religions—Christianity, Buddhism, and Catholicism—numerous sects and organizations are rampant. The arrival of Islam has further complicated society.

Fifth, there are no riots or anti-government protests in North Korea. This is due to ideological indoctrination and strong control. Society is quiet.

Since liberation, South Korea has experienced continuous protests and rallies. Forces directed by North Korea have incited young people and students to take to the streets through false propaganda. Eventually, they even mobilized foreigners to participate in protests aimed at ousting the president.

Sixth, in North Korea, there are no private organizations other than those managed by the Workers' Party. The political parties are only the Workers' Party, the Democratic Party, and the Chondoist Chongu Party, and there are four labor organizations: the General Federation of Trade Unions, the Kim Il-sung Socialist Youth League, the Korean Democratic Women's Union, and the Union of Agricultural Workers. In addition, only about 35 organizations exist, such as the Committee for Peace, the Students Committee, the Scientists Association, and the Olympic Committee. Even alumni gatherings are prohibited in North Korea, and those who form private organizations disappear without a trace.

South Korea is the opposite. There are countless gatherings such as alumni associations and hiking clubs, to the extent that individuals can join multiple organizations simultaneously. Among these, there are not a few organizations engaged in anti-state activities.

Seventh, education in North Korea is conducted according to a single textbook and educational policy. Although it centers on fabricated revolutionary history and personal idolization, the system of educating the people and future generations with a single purpose and ideology is clear.

South Korea, in the name of freedom, allows diverse education, but in reality, it teaches the ideology of the enemy and idolizes enemy leaders. The presence of Xi Jinping's portrait at the nation's top university demonstrates this.

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