Chinese Journalists Reestablish Presence in North Korea After COVID-19 Withdrawal

Chinese journalists from state-run media have returned to North Korea after a five-year hiatus due to COVID-19. North Korea is selectively reopening to foreign media, allowing limited access for certain agencies, although concerns about government oversight and propaganda remain. The dynamics of foreign media operations in North Korea continue to evoke strong reactions regarding journalistic independence and the integrity of news reporting.

Chinese journalists from state-run media outlets, including CCTV and the People’s Daily, have resumed reporting in North Korea after a five-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to South Korea’s Ministry of Unification. North Korea has selectively reopened its doors to foreign media, allowing a few select agencies to establish their bureaus under stringent governmental scrutiny. Among those permitted access are Chinese, Russian, Japanese, and Western agencies, such as the Associated Press (AP) and Agence France-Presse (AFP).

The Ministry of Unification reported that Chinese journalists returned to North Korea on February 27. As of now, AP and AFP have not yet re-entered the country. It remains unclear whether Russian journalists have also returned to North Korea. Additionally, the Japan-based pro-Pyongyang newspaper, Choson Sinbo, announced the reopening of its North Korean bureau, marking the end of a five-year operational suspension due to the pandemic.

This development occurs amidst North Korea sending mixed signals regarding its reopening to foreigners. Recently, the country closed its only entry point for foreign tourists just weeks after permitting their return, sparking speculation among South Korean media about potential controlling measures over information dissemination. Prior to last month, only Russians were granted limited group tour access to North Korea, starting in September 2023.

The North Korean government regulates the establishment of foreign media bureaus and journalists’ residency through agencies like the Korean Central News Agency and the Korean Central Broadcasting Committee. These agencies are required to submit residency approval requests to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following prior verification from the Propaganda and Agitation Department of the Workers’ Party of Korea.

Foreign media operating in North Korea often face scrutiny for their reporting practices, attributed to the heavy restrictions imposed by the regime. Journalists are closely monitored, and their movements are controlled, often accompanied by government minders, which hinders their ability to report independently. Critics argue that these bureaux may inadvertently promote state propaganda rather than deliver unbiased news.

In 2021, South Korean broadcaster KBS expressed interest in establishing a bureau in Pyongyang to facilitate inter-Korean media cooperation and coverage. However, this proposal faced public backlash due to concerns over journalistic integrity and the potential for such arrangements to channel funds to the North Korean government, with the then-opposition People’s Power Party alleging governmental irresponsibility in managing taxpayers’ money.

In conclusion, the return of Chinese journalists to North Korea after five years signifies a controlled re-engagement of foreign media within the country. Despite this reopening, heavy governmental oversight persists, raising concerns about the capacity for independent reporting. The complexities of North Korea’s interactions with foreign journalists reflect ongoing issues surrounding state propaganda and the balance between media freedom and political control.

Original Source: rfa.org