≪ DPRK ≫, A NEW PHOTO EXHIBITION BY ÉTIENNE AUGEREAU AND NATION PHOTO MONGE

≪ DPRK OR NORTH KOREA UNDER KIM JONG-II ≫, BY ETIENNE AUGEREAU

≪ In August 2011, power in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (the country’s official name) was still in the hands of Kim Jong-Il, who would pass away a few months later, paving the way for the succession of his son and current leader, Kim Jong-Un. He himself had succeeded his own father, Kim Il-Sung, the country’s founder, in 1994.

Upon entering the country, we were required to hand over our mobile phones, which would be returned upon departure. It was also strictly forbidden to bring radios or, of course, any foreign propaganda material—such as South Korean or American flags.

The entire trip took place under the attentive and ever-watchful supervision of our two guides—but even more so, under the gaze of the Kim dynasty.

From university classrooms to the airport hall, from the badges worn by our guides to propaganda posters, portraits of the two Great Leaders were everywhere. Quotes from these two all-knowing figures—almost godlike in stature—and traces of their presence were carefully preserved.

Yet, in fleeting moments, and despite the heavy veil covering the country, we caught a glimpse of what lies behind the curtain. In the smile of a soldier, in the cautious words of a guide, or while sharing a harsh liquor around a table, we felt a little closer to the North Koreans—for whom the word ‘foreigner’ likely holds more weight than anywhere else in the world. »

* Democratic Popular Republic of Korea

EXHIBITION

From Monday, July 7 to Saturday, August 30, 2025
Mon — Sat, 10 a.m. — 7:30 p.m.
Nation Photo Monge, 56 rue Monge, 75005 Paris
Free entry