N. Korean band’s visit to China may prompt new era of relations: Experts
Band’s visit will change Chinese public's perception towards N. Korean government
Experts saw the visit to China as signaling the beginning of a rapid improvement in the relations between the two countries, even potentially foreshadowing Kim Jong Un’s visit to China in upcoming year.
“This performance will be helpful in strengthening the friendship and mutual understanding between people from both countries,” said Hua Chunying, spokesperson from China’s Foreign Ministry.
The Moranbong Band was first introduced to world in 2012 as the successor to the Pochonbo Electronic Ensemble. Being organized by Kim Jong Un himself, the band has been often referred to as the symbol of North Korea’s step towards cultural openness.
Lee Woo-young, professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul has previously explained that Moranbong Band symbolizes changes in North Korea’s culture.
“Last year Kim Jong Un ordered the improvement in the quality of cultural life in North Korea by modernizing it and allowing a generous spectrum as well,” said Lee.
“The Moranbong band’s renewal reflects North Koreans’ need for better, more modernized quality in cultural products.”
Two other North Korea-China experts saw the band’s visit to China as a vivid symbol of improving relations between two countries.
“We can see the band’s visit to China as the flare that signals the further improvement in relations between two countries,” said Lee Chang-ju, a Ph.D candidate at Fudan University in Shanghai focusing on North Korea-China relations.
Lee saw that this cultural exchange between two might be advanced work to prepare for Kim Jong Un’s visit to China in near future.
“The last time Liu Yunshan, the one of the top leaders of China, visited North Korea, Kim Jong Un asked Liu about his intent to visit China sometime in future. Liu has given Kim a positive answer,” said Lee.
Chung Jae-hung, the North Korea-China relations expert from the Institute for Far Eastern Studies has explained band’s visit to China as part of Chinese government’s effort to change public’s perception towards North Korea.
“Recently on Chinese media, there have been numerous introductions about Moranbong band. This is Chinese government’s effort to change public’s perception towards North Korean government, which is usually portrayed as dark and abnormal.”
Chung explained that the new perception of North Korea, produced by the modern-style Moranbong Band will be crucial in making progress should Kim Jong Un visit China in future.
“There will be huge difference between Kim Jong Un’s visit to China with or without improving Chinese public’s perception towards today’s North Korea,” said Chung.
“Mass Chinese coverage of Moranbong Band is the message that the government is trying to send to its people.”
Featured image: Rodong Shinmun
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