Juche facts for kids

Juche ideology
Juche Tower during the May Day celebrations
Quick facts for kids Korean name
Chosŏn'gŭl	주체사상
Hancha	主體 思想
Revised Romanization	Juche sasang
McCune–Reischauer	Chuch'e sasang
Literal meaning "subject(ive) thought"

Juche (pronounced "JOO-chay") is the official idea or ideology of North Korea. It is often translated as "self-reliance". The North Korean government says it was created by Kim Il-sung. They believe it is a very important and new idea for their country and the world.

The main idea of Juche is that "people are the masters of their own future." It also says that the people of North Korea should be in charge of their country's progress. By being self-reliant and strong, a nation can achieve true socialism.

What is Juche?

Juche is a way of thinking that focuses on a country being strong and independent. It means a nation should rely on its own strengths and resources. This includes growing its own food and making its own goods. The goal is to not depend on other countries.

How Juche Started

Kim Il-sung (1912–1994) developed the Juche idea. At first, it was seen as a type of Marxism–Leninism. But over time, it became very specific to Korea. It still used some ideas from Marxism, like how societies change over time. However, Juche strongly focused on the individual person, the nation, and its independence. A key part of Juche is being able to support yourself, especially through farming.

Why Juche is Criticized

Many people criticize the Juche ideology. They say it helps the North Korean government keep strong control over its people. It is also used to explain why North Korea is very isolated from the rest of the world. Critics also say it supports the idea that the Kim family are special leaders for the "Korean race." This has led to a "personality cult" around them. A personality cult means people are taught to admire and worship a leader or family very much.

Juche Around the World

The International Institute of the Juche Idea was created in Tokyo in 1978. Its job is to oversee groups around the world that study Juche. The Juche Tower was finished in 1982 in Pyongyang. It has special plaques from people and study groups from many countries who support Juche.

Images for kids

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  Visitors of the Mansu Hill Grand Monument in Pyongyang bow to massive bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il.

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  Propaganda art promoting Songun. The Korean text reads, "Long live the great victory of Songun!"

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  Tribute plaques to Juche from foreign delegates, contained in the interior entrance of the Juche Tower

See also

In Spanish: Juche para niños