In North Korea, the government has instituted harsh penalties for individuals caught consuming South Korean media content, particularly condemning the popular series "Squid Game". Recent reactions on social media highlight a division in perspective, with some viewing the government's stance as a misguided attempt to preserve cultural identity, while others see it as blatant intimidation against its citizens. This extreme measure emphasizes the regime's fears regarding the ideological impact of foreign media.

According to a recent episode of the program "Networks", many South Koreans, including famous bands like BTS, enjoy worldwide acclaim. However, access to their content in North Korea comes at a steep personal risk, where convictions for listening to such music can lead to the death penalty. The North Korean authorities consider foreign media exposure a significant ideological threat, imposing strict penalties on those found in possession of or disseminating foreign television shows or music.

A report by Amnesty International has indicated that citizens have fled North Korea in response to these punitive laws. The regime has established a specialized security unit, known as "Group 109", which is tasked with conducting searches and inspections for illegal media content, including the possession of foreign dramas. This has led to an atmosphere of fear and paranoia among the populace, underlining the lengths to which the North Korean government will go to maintain its grip on power and prevent external cultural influences from entering the country.