North Korea Bans, Alcohol, Marriages, And Celebrations Of Any Kind As They Mourn President Kim Jong Un’s Father

North Korea has reportedly declared a seven-day period of mourning to mark the 11th anniversary of the passing of former leader Kim Jong Il, during which, no singing, drinking, or other forms of celebration will be tolerated.

The late “Dear Leader,” the father of current leader Kim Jong Un, who passed away on December 17, 2011, has been honoured by the government with an order for its citizens to maintain a spirit of solemn meditation.

The period of mourning is set to start on Wednesday and last through till December 27.

“You must never drink alcohol or engage in entertainment such as singing or drinking during the period of commemoration,” Ryanggang locals said to the Korean Service of Radio Free Asia on Wednesday under the condition of anonymity for security reasons.

In addition, significant life events like weddings, funerals, and even jesa, memorial services for the dead, are to be reduced or avoided by people.

“The atmosphere of fear that controls and pressures the residents will be strong during the commemoration period. If you do not watch yourself and are not careful during this time, you may get into serious trouble,” the source said.

Additionally, authorities have issued warnings that secret agents are on the watch and have advised individuals to refrain from making political statements or criticizing the administration during this time.

The source claimed that during the time of mourning, movement inside the nation would be more constrained than usual and that it would be practically impossible to buy travel passes from officials.

According to a local who spoke to RFA under the condition of anonymity, people in the northeastern province of North Hamgyong were warned to “be careful about what [they] say and do” during the period of mourning.

According to a local who spoke to RFA under the condition of anonymity so that they could speak freely, people in the northeastern province of North Hamgyong were warned to “be careful about what [they] say and do” during the period of mourning.

In addition to the instructions about acting respectfully and refraining from criticizing or complaining about the authorities, a second source claimed that the central government also directed the neighbourhood watch units to implement tougher surveillance of the citizenry.

The second source said, “Documentaries about Kim Jong Il’s achievements and his love for the people are being aired on television every day. Various memorial-related events such as museum visits, intensive lectures, and commemorative lectures are continuously being held, but they always end with a theme of endless loyalty to Kim Jong Un.”