North Korean teens faced strict punishment after painting each other’s nails light pink. Authorities in Pyongyang therefore organized a public struggle session to address the matter. The incident showed how the regime treats even the smallest acts of self-expression as threats. Moreover, officials warned that the youth must always uphold socialist values.
The Mangyongdae Children’s Palace hosted the meeting, which the education department and district police jointly arranged. Students aged 11 to 17 attended alongside their teachers. Officials declared that painting nails violated socialist discipline and demanded an immediate end. Furthermore, they stressed that all North Korean teens must follow ideological rules without exception.
Reports revealed that male students painted the nails of female classmates in several schools. The trend allegedly started at the palace itself, which gave the issue more weight. Consequently, officials condemned the behavior as “romantic” and harmful to socialist principles. They argued that such conduct undermined the values promoted by the state.
During the session, officials highlighted the palace’s international reputation. The venue often represents North Korean education as a global model for youth activities. However, they claimed that nail-painting tarnished this image. As a result, they branded it an ideological deviation that required strong correction.
After the lectures, officials ordered twelve students onto the stage before their peers. Teachers and classmates denounced them in front of the crowd. The North Korean teens then admitted guilt and expressed remorse. In addition, they promised to obey socialist rules and follow collective discipline.
These public struggle sessions serve several purposes beyond discipline. They strengthen ideological control, build fear, and suppress individuality. Moreover, by humiliating students openly, officials reinforce the dominance of the regime. Even trivial actions, such as nail decoration, therefore become political issues in North Korea.
Experts explain that the regime relies on such events to control behavior. The government uses them widely in schools and communities. Parents, teachers, and students take part, which ensures loyalty to the state. Consequently, this process erases individuality while preserving obedience across generations.
In conclusion, the punishment of North Korean teens over painted nails highlights the regime’s absolute grip on society. By staging public humiliation, authorities reinforced ideological discipline and suppressed personal expression. Ultimately, the case revealed how North Korean teens live under constant surveillance and political control.
