North Korea's World Cup Propaganda Machine Uncovered
BBC News Seoul, South Korea
For only the second time in footballing history, one of the world's most mysterious nations has qualified for the World Cup. North Korea's qualification for the 2010 tournament in South Africa has been met with widespread intrigue and curiosity, especially given the country's secretive and repressive regime.
Propaganda machine
One of the most fascinating aspects of North Korea's World Cup campaign has been the role of the country's propaganda machine. The regime has been accused of doctoring footage of the team's matches and of exaggerating the enthusiasm of the fans.
However, despite the government's efforts to control the message, cracks have begun to appear in the facade. North Korean defectors have spoken out about the regime's propaganda machine, and social media has allowed ordinary North Koreans to share their own views on the World Cup.
As a result, the world has been able to get a glimpse of the real North Korea behind the propaganda. And it is a country that is far more complex and nuanced than the one that the regime portrays.
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