Kim Jong Un, the North Korean dictator, seems to have inspired a new song, which unexpectedly became a hit on TikTok.
Despite the Korean lyrics praising Kim Jong Un and his aggressive stance towards the US, Gen Z users are dancing to the catchy synthy-electro pop tune.
Many of these young users, seemingly unaware of the song's controversial origin, have flooded TikTok with comments like, "Let's sing Kim Jong Un, the great leader," and "It's just a really great tune."
Some even joke about it surpassing Taylor Swift's album. However, experts warn that behind the sunny pop lies a more sinister message.
To create a propaganda hit like "Friendly Father," North Korea follows a formula honed over 50 years.
The song's peppy, catchy vibe, reminiscent of Western pop, carries a Soviet-era undertone.
Described by Gen Z users as "Abba-coded," it echoes the Swedish band's style.
Kim Jong Un has released a song called 'Friendly Father', it's generally about how he's a great and friendly leader.
— Daniel🎗🏴 ॐ (@DannyDutch) April 28, 2024
I have to say, after watching it, maybe we were wrong about him...
Kim, if you're reading this, I like your haircut. pic.twitter.com/ZCjbzYFWRg
According to North Korea analyst Peter Moody, the song's upbeat nature and orchestral elements make it irresistible.
Yet, crafting a chart-topper in North Korea isn't just about commercial success—it's about implanting an earworm in the mind.
It's worth noting how significant this situation is, particularly considering Kim Jung Un's strong aversion to secular influences from across the globe.
Alexandra Leonzini, a scholar at Cambridge University, notes that melodies must be simple and accessible, avoiding complexity. They must also suit a broad vocal range for widespread singing.
North Korean songs focus on motivating people towards national goals, shunning emotional ballads. Creativity and artistic freedom are strictly prohibited, with works mandated to serve the state's interests.
Defectors reveal that North Koreans wake up to propaganda songs blasting in village town squares every morning.
Keith Howard, an emeritus professor of musicology who visited North Korea in the 1990s, mentions that song sheets and lyrics of new songs are printed in newspapers and magazines. He adds that people usually have to learn dances along with the songs.
Howard explains, "By the time the song has sort of been taken into the body, it's become part of the person."
He continues, "So they know the lyrics so well, even if they're just doing the actions, even if they're just listening to it."
Howard also emphasized that a good ideological song embeds the message deeply within the listener.
This isn't the first song dedicated to Kim, but there's a noticeable change in how he was addressed this time.
He's now referred to as "father" and "the Great," terms previously reserved for his grandfather, Kim Il Sung.
Kim Jong Un was initially called the "Great Successor" when he took over in 2012, but analysts believe this shift suggests he's solidifying his image as North Korea's "Supreme Leader."
Recent changes in propaganda songs, like replacing "our father Kim Il Sung" with "our father Kim Jong Un," indicate a potential shift in direction.
As a leader, Kim Jong Un has grown increasingly hostile and aggressive, especially in military matters.
Earlier this year, Kim Jong Un announced that North Korea would no longer seek reunification with South Korea, calling it "public enemy number one."
Pyongyang also demolished an important arch symbolizing hope for reunification, linked to his grandfather's legacy.
Leonzini explains that songs in North Korea serve as a way to communicate the state's direction, similar to newspapers.
Despite the irony of a Communist song going viral on a Chinese-owned app amid US lawmakers' efforts to ban it, it's widely popular.
British TikTokker Matas Kardokas gained fame with meme videos featuring North Korean propaganda songs, including one humorously stating: "Nobody in the trendy coffee shop knows that I am listening to North Korean propaganda music right now."