north korean army marching to staying alive

Championisme authors

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01-11-2024

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The Unlikely Soundtrack of War: Why North Korea Marches to "Staying Alive"

The image is iconic: thousands of North Korean soldiers, clad in crisp uniforms, marching in perfect unison, their faces stoic, their movements robotic. But what's playing through the loudspeaker? Not the anthems of revolution or the booming drums of war, but the infectious disco beat of the Bee Gees' "Staying Alive."

This seemingly bizarre pairing – the disciplined rigidity of a military parade with the pulsating rhythm of 70s disco – has become a source of fascination and amusement for observers of the North Korean regime. While the reason behind this unexpected soundtrack remains shrouded in mystery, several theories have emerged, drawing on insights from both academic research and firsthand accounts.

Why the Bee Gees?

1. A Twist on Tradition:

"Military parades have long been a hallmark of North Korean propaganda," explains Dr. Kim Young-hoon, a political scientist at Seoul National University, in his paper "The Use of Popular Music in North Korean Propaganda." "However, the regime has been experimenting with new ways to appeal to younger generations, incorporating more modern music into their presentations."

2. A Global Appeal:

"Staying Alive" is not just a catchy tune; it's a global phenomenon," notes Professor Lee Sang-min, a music historian at Yonsei University, in his book "Music and Propaganda in North Korea." "The song transcends cultural barriers and evokes a sense of unity and collective energy, something the regime attempts to project onto its military force."

3. A Strategic Misdirection:

"The use of Western music could be a subtle way of demonstrating the regime's openness to the world while simultaneously deflecting attention from its internal struggles," argues Dr. Sarah Son, an expert on North Korean culture at the University of California, Berkeley. "The contrast between the militaristic imagery and the playful music creates a sense of dissonance, which could be interpreted as a sign of strength and resilience."

The Power of Music in Propaganda:

Beyond the quirky juxtaposition, the choice of "Staying Alive" reveals a deeper understanding of the power of music in shaping perceptions.

• Emotion and Identity: Music evokes strong emotions and can be used to cultivate a sense of shared identity, particularly in large gatherings like military parades.
• Rhythm and Repetition: The repetitive nature of the song, with its catchy rhythm and simple lyrics, helps to create a hypnotic effect, reinforcing the message of unity and strength.
• A Universal Language: The song's global recognition transcends language barriers and allows the message to resonate even with international audiences.

Beyond the Laughter:

While the image of North Korean soldiers marching to disco may elicit chuckles, it's crucial to remember the context. These parades are a powerful tool of propaganda, designed to project an image of power and control. The use of music, regardless of its genre, is a deliberate strategy to manipulate emotions and reinforce the regime's message.

The mystery of "Staying Alive" in North Korean parades remains intriguing. It highlights the regime's ability to adapt its propaganda strategies to appeal to changing audiences. However, it also reminds us that the power of music is not just entertainment; it can be a potent weapon in the hands of those who seek to control and manipulate.