- The song, which gained popularity on TikTok, violates the country's National Security Act.
- The Korea Communications Standards Commission stated that the song idolizes Kim and praises him.
- The commission plans to block 29 versions of the song but did not elaborate on how it will be done.
Seoul's Korea Communications Standards Commission stated on Monday, declaring that "[The song] idolizes Kim Jong Un and praises and glorifies him."
The Security Act blocks access to the North's government websites and media and penalizes behaviors and speeches in favor of the regime.
The commission announced that it would block twenty-nine versions of the Friendly Father music video but did not elaborate on how that would be done. It further explained that South Korea's National Intelligence Service prompted the decision.
"The video is typical content linked to psychological warfare against South Korea, as it was posted on a channel operated to connect with the outside world and is mainly focused on unilaterally idolizing and glorifying Kim," stated the regulator.
The impending ban has sparked the interest of South Koreans, many of whom have checked out the music video since the announcement, according to comments they have left on the video. Some commented that the authorities should leave the video accessible "so that more people can enjoy the joke".
Friendly Father represents the latest in a line of pop songs churned out by Pyongyang's propaganda machine in the past 50 years.
The bright-tempo, catchy hit describes Mr. Kim as “father” and “the Great” - terms previously reserved for North Korea’s first leader, his grandfather Kim Il Sung. “Let’s sing Kim Jong Un, the great leader/ Let’s brag about Kim Jong Un, our friendly father,” it goes.
Some TikTok users claim the tune accompanies them at the gym or while doing homework, while others appreciate its nostalgic style, stating it reminds them of older Spanish and French pop music.
The two Koreas have remained divided since an armistice concluded the Korean War in 1953. They have not signed a peace treaty and therefore are technically still at war.
Violations of Seoul's National Security Act can result in up to seven years in jail, although enforcement of the law has recently eased. There have also been calls to review the law on free speech grounds.
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