A viral claim has surfaced alleging that North Korean President Kim Jong Un has declared February 16th to 26th as “National Days of Pain and Mourning” in memory of his father, Kim Jong Il. According to the post, citizens are reportedly required to cry daily or face life imprisonment, and anyone caught laughing could be executed. While the story has gained traction online, no credible news outlets or official sources have confirmed these extreme measures.
North Korea is known for its tightly controlled public displays of grief during national mourning periods. In past events, such as the death anniversaries of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong Il, citizens have been expected to participate in state-organized ceremonies and show visible sorrow. However, reports of harsh punishments for insufficient mourning such as imprisonment or execution are often based on unverified accounts and should be treated with caution.
The claim also suggests that the emotional state of the entire country must mirror Kim Jong Un’s mood, with national sadness declared whenever he feels down. While this aligns with the image of authoritarian control often associated with North Korea, such statements are likely exaggerated or satirical, lacking corroboration from reputable human rights organizations or journalists with access to the country.
In an era of viral misinformation, it’s essential to distinguish satire and speculation from verified news. Stories like these, while sensational, risk distorting public understanding of real issues in North Korea. Until confirmed by credible sources, this claim should be viewed as unverified and potentially fictional
