Research Article
A Study of North Korean Speed Battle Youth Shock Guard
Sogang Institute for East Asian Studies, Sogang University
Published: August 2007 · Vol. 26 No. 2 · pp. 391-418
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33334/sieas.2007..53.391
Full Text
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to examine operation systems, achievements and limitations of the Speed Battle Youth Shock Guard. This work will illuminate how the Speed Battle Youth Shock Guard go far forward stabilizing the North Korean regime. The North Korean youth in the period of Songun politics has played a pivotal role in leading the North Korean economy. Young people in North Korea has a majority in the labor supply and been asked to perform critical activities as a "vanguard" or "shock troop" in building economy. Therefore, 'Kim il-sung Socialist Youth League, the only young man's mass organization, operates the Speed Battle Youth Shock Guard as a permanent establishment for construction of economy. The Speed Battle Youth Shock Guard, established in 1975 under the direction of Kim il-sung, has constructed nation's important facilities and factories. Especially in the time of 'a march full of hardship' the North Korean young mem implanted 'hope' in the people by devoting all their energies to construction of 'Youth Hero Highway.' After the death of Kim il-sung, the Speed Battle Youth Shock Guard has become a crucial base of Kim jung-il's regime by playing important roles in not only mobilizing the youth but also enlightening and training them. To promote the youth as vanguards of the Party, the Speed Battle Youth Shock Guard has educated and controlled them through rigid military rules and systems.
