New Delhi
These days, people of North Korea are going crazy about America’s famous street food hot dog. This street food has become quite popular there in the last few years. Meanwhile, the dictator there, Kim Jong-un, banned hot dogs in the country. The reason given behind this is also quite interesting. North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un has banned eating and selling hot dogs in the country. This is being seen as a step to eliminate the influence of western culture. Now, if a person is caught cooking or selling hot dogs, he may face punishment in the country’s notorious labor camps.
Why ban hot dogs?
It is being said that this ban has been imposed due to the increasing trend of American dish ‘Budae-jige’ inspired by South Korea. Budae Jige is also called ‘Army Base Stew’ here. This includes meats like hot dogs and Spam. This is a hot dog in a way. It was made using meat left behind by American soldiers during the Korean War in the 1950s.
Warning to street vendors
This dish started becoming popular in North Korea around 2017. But now it has been completely banned considering it a symbol of ‘capitalist culture’. A vendor from Ryanggang, a northern province of North Korea, said that selling budae-jige in the market has been stopped. Authorities have announced that if anyone is caught selling this food import, his shop will be closed.
Strictness on divorce here too
Apart from this, strict action is also being taken against those who seek divorce in North Korea. According to reports, the government considers divorce an ‘anti-socialist act’ and any legal divorce requires government approval. Those seeking divorce are being sent to labor camps for one to six months. Female divorcees are being given more harsh punishment than men. A divorced woman from South Pyongan province said that about 80 women and 40 men are imprisoned in the labor camp. Of these, about 30 men and women are facing punishment due to divorce. Women are being given longer sentences than men.
Many strict policies and restrictions are implemented in the country
Many drastic measures have been taken to stop the influence of Western and South Korean culture in North Korea. These steps include promotion of traditional cuisine and customs and a complete ban on outside influences. Experts believe that the purpose of these restrictions is to maintain control over the public and prevent the entry of foreign culture. This is another example of the harsh policies of the North Korean government.