Scroll to the bottom to see something else.
가족: Family
Ka-jok
"The Korean family philosophy and culture was forced upon them from China in the fifteenth century. The Koreans family played a central role for influencing an indivdual's attitude and behavior in their society. In Korea the family has the task of being responsive to a individual needs. However, the Korean ideas of family life was "five generations under one roof". Now, there are three generations, of Koreans who are residing under one roof the parents, childern, and grand children. Although the western style nuclear family in increasing, the traditional family relationships are changing in North and South Korea. Obedience within the family is less strict and formal. Neverthelss, it is normal for the parents to live with the eldest son. The respect of the elder son for his parents is still growing strong." Source
Class origins are the primary consideration when it comes to arranging a marriage. “If a man comes from the family of a high-ranking party member, and a woman from a family that does not have a comparable sociopolitical status, a marriage between the two would not be approved of by the society. If a man comes from a family that was originally repatriated from Japan in the postwar period and a woman comes from a family that is ‘native’ North Korean, a marriage between the two is considered difficult since, generally speaking, repatriates are regarded with suspicion and distrust due to their ongoing connection with families in Japan.” Because of this classes tend to inter-marry, similar to other capitalist societies.
"Normally, newlyweds conduct a small ceremony, inviting close friends, neighbors, and family members, take a photo if they can afford it, and register their marriage." Source
In the DPRK, marriage and family are closely intertwined. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is a hierarchical society. Anything that one family member does will consequences for the rest of the family.
Families will begin saving for a wedding when the child is young, because a wedding is a very expensive undertaking for them. Most marriages are arranged, but people are beginning to break with that tradition. It is not easy because dating is not allowed. Public displays of affection are discouraged, and police patrol public parks to prevent it.
No weddings may take place on February 16th or April 15th due to those days being the birthdays of Kim Jong Il and Kim Il Sung, respectively.
Most people cannot afford to take pictures on their wedding day, but those who do are required to take one in front of the statue of Kim Il Sung
Women will wear hanboks for their weddings, and men wear suits or their uniforms.