김정은 시대 공연예술의 변화과정과 함의 고찰 : 주요 악단 및 당대회 공연 내용 분석을 중심으로

Abstract

This study examines the development and transformation of North Korean performing arts during the Kim Jong–un era, analyzing their functional significance within the country’s political and social structure. Under Kim Il–sung and Kim Jong–Il, performing arts served as a “vanguard of ideological struggle,” primarily used to preserve the regime and idolize its leaders. Since coming to power, Kim Jong–un has emphasized the construction of a “socialist civilized nation” and positioned culture and the arts as a “central pillar of national governance.” Through this, he has sought to project the modernity of the system and his own image as an innovative leader. These cultural policies are reflected in the content, form, and technology of performing arts, particularly through prominent art troupes such as the Moranbong Band, Chongbong Band, and Samjiyon Orchestra. The study divides the development of performing arts under Kim Jong–un into three stages— early, middle, and late periods of his rule—and analyzes their characteristics in each phase. It concludes that performing arts in the Kim Jong–un era have evolved beyond mere propaganda and regime maintenance to function as a tool of emotional politics for internal cohesion and as a cultural diplomacy strategy for shaping the country’s external image.