North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly banned hot dogs, calling the popular Western dish an act of treason.
This new decree is part of Kim’s broader effort to eliminate Western cultural influences in the country.
The ban, which targets both vendors and households, comes with severe consequences. Anyone caught selling or preparing hot dogs could face time in North Korea’s notorious labor camps.
Harsh Penalties for Disobedience
Authorities in North Korea have instructed vendors to stop selling hot dogs immediately. The Sun reported that both police and market officials are actively shutting down any vendors caught selling the banned items.
While penalties aren’t fully detailed, the threat of forced labor or deportation emphasizes Kim Jong Un’s resolve to protect the country from what he sees as the “invasion of Western culture.”
Banning Budae-Jjigae and Other Foreign Dishes
This ban on hot dogs follows previous measures targeting other foreign dishes.
According to Radio Free Asia (RFA), North Korea had already banned the sale of popular South Korean dishes, such as budae-jjigae (army stew) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), in late 2024.
Budae-jjigae, a stew traditionally made with hot dogs or Spam, gained popularity in North Korea after being introduced in 2017.
However, authorities have since deemed the dish too Western, and sales were reportedly stopped in several provinces, including Ryanggang.
A Broader Crackdown on Western Culture
Kim Jong Un’s crackdown on Western culture is not limited to food. In December 2024, the regime warned that North Koreans celebrating Christmas could face execution.
Additionally, divorcees may face penalties, such as being sent to labor camps, for what the regime deems the “anti-socialist” act of divorce.
As the government tightens its control, North Koreans find themselves with fewer ways to express their culture and individuality.
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