ABSTRACT
North Korean graphic novels seduce. This seductiveness has to be considered from different and somewhat contradictory perspectives. Whether and to what extent this seductiveness is seen as due to wholesome ideological contents, captivating storylines or graphic creativity, and whether the seductiveness is seen as good, partially good or negative, all depends on the perspective. Kurimchaek seduce their readers as a form of political indoctrination but through fantasy, creativity and imagination that is within reach – and yet beyond the grasp – of the regime. First and foremost kurimchaek seduce the reader in a way that is intended by the regime. The continuous presence of kurimchaek in the DPRK and the persistence of genres such as the spy stories attest to its efficacy. These sequential image format stories are also seductive in another sense, however. They produce the kinds of creative excesses which – for better or worse – have engrossed and entertained comic book readers globally throughout the 20th century.
