North Korea executed teens for listening to K-pop, watching ‘Squid Game’: report

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Ashley CarnahanFebruary 8, 2026 at 06:09 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Amnesty International reported in early February that North Korean authorities have executed teenagers for watching South Korean media, including the television series "Squid Game," and listening to K-pop. The report cites testimony from escapees and details instances of forced labor and public humiliation as punishment for consuming South Korean content. According to the report, those without money or political connections face the harshest penalties, while families with resources can often avoid severe punishment through bribes. Defectors also reported being forced to witness public executions as a form of state-mandated indoctrination to deter exposure to foreign culture. The organization condemns North Korea's criminalization of access to information and the government's use of fear and corruption to control its population.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Japan 30% Yanggang Province 40% Kim Eunju 40% Sarah Brooks 50% Kim Joonsik ×260% Squid Game ×270% South Korea ×470% Amnesty International ×380% North Korea ×690%

Keywords

north korea 100% executions 90% k-pop 80% squid game 80% south korean media 70% human rights 70% forced labor 60% public humiliation 50% information access 50% corruption 40%