Juche
state ideology of North Korea that combines Marxism–Leninism with an emphasis on human agency, role of consciousness, and primacy of ideology and propaganda, as well as the nation-state, national sovereignty, and the role of an individual leader
Juche (Korean: 주체사상, romanized: juchesasang) is the group of ideas developed by North Korean leader Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-il . Juche means "self-reliance." Juche is inspired by Leninism, Stalinism, and Maoism.
| Juche | |
 Torch symbolizing Juche at the top of the Juche Tower in Pyongyang | |
| Korean name | |
|---|---|
| Hangul | 주체사상 |
| Hanja | 主體思想 |
| Literal meaning | Subject idea |
| RR | Juche sasang |
| MR | Chuch'e sasang |
Ideas
changeAccording to its supporters, Juche was developed from Marxism and Leninism. In many cases, it is different from both. Basically, Juche says that:
- The needs of North Korea and its people are more important than the ideas of Leninism, Stalinism, Maoism or Marxism.
- North Korea is special.
- The welfare of many people (who make up the nation of North Korea) is more important than the welfare of an individual.
- People must design what the world should look like.
- A strong leader is required to make needed reforms.
- Intellectuals are important.
Revolution
changeJuche says that every nation needs to drive forward its own revolution. Three things are necessary for this:
- Political independence
- Economic self-reliance
- Military independence
According to Juche, the state should make sure these three things exist.
Certain people have described these ideas as a philosophy; others see it as a religion.