Let's trim our hair in accordance with the socialist lifestyle

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Let's Trim Our Hair in Accordance with the Socialist Lifestyle is a North Korean government campaign introduced in the early 2000s aimed at promoting a range of state-approved hairstyles for its citizens, as part of broader efforts to control aspects of personal life and maintain a culturally homogeneous society. This initiative reflects the government's desire to instill a collective socialist identity among the populace, emphasizing conformity and the rejection of Western influences.

Background

The campaign was part of a series of measures implemented by the North Korean government to regulate the personal lives of its citizens, including dress codes and behavior. North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), has been under the leadership of the Kim dynasty since its establishment in 1948. The state's ideology, Juche, emphasizes self-reliance, collectivism, and loyalty to the leader. In this context, personal appearance is not merely a matter of individual taste but is seen as an expression of social and political values.

Campaign Details

"Let's Trim Our Hair in Accordance with the Socialist Lifestyle" specifically targeted men's hairstyles, recommending short haircuts and stipulating that hair should not cover the ears or eyes. It was reported that the campaign also suggested that men should get their hair cut every 15 days. The government's rationale behind these regulations was to promote a clean, tidy appearance that was deemed appropriate for a socialist society. Additionally, it was believed that short hair would maintain a healthier scalp, as the campaign claimed that long hair could deprive the brain of nutrients.

Women were also subject to hair length regulations, with unmarried women encouraged to keep their hair shorter, while married women had the option of slightly longer styles. The campaign was widely publicized through various state-controlled media outlets, including television, where programs were dedicated to showcasing approved hairstyles.

Enforcement

Enforcement of the campaign was reported to be strict, with government officials and state-sanctioned groups tasked with monitoring compliance. There were reports of public criticism sessions targeting individuals who failed to adhere to the guidelines. The campaign's enforcement mechanisms underscored the government's broader efforts to control personal behavior and ensure conformity within society.

Criticism and Impact

The campaign has been criticized by external observers as an infringement on personal freedoms and an example of the extreme lengths to which the North Korean government will go to maintain control over its citizens. However, within the context of North Korean society, where the state exerts significant influence over many aspects of daily life, such campaigns are part of a broader strategy to cultivate a unified, socialist identity among the populace.

See Also

• Juche
• Kim dynasty
• Culture of North Korea
• Propaganda in North Korea