ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the complex interplay between culture, informal economy, technology and politics about the (re)production, distribution and consumption of the Korean Wave in North Korea. The lack of empirical research data from North Korea can be compensated by a comparison between today’s North Korea and China in the 1970s and 1980s. Existing studies about China, particularly about its media piracy, can shed light on potential change in North Korea if there is economic reform and growth of black markets. The Korean Wave in North Korea is not just an interaction between South Korea and North Korea, but importantly it is also intermediated by China. Chinese cities serve as transit ports for foreign visitors, capital and goods to North Korea. Chinese-Koreans enter North Korea to trade, and those living in the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture act as communication channels between China and the two Koreas. China originates broadcast and mobile phone signals which North Koreans pick up across the border. Significantly, China has a vibrant market for pirated media culture and affordable low-end electronic goods.
