North Korea bans sarcasm
Seeking to prevent criticism of its oppressive policies and totalitarian leader, North Korea has reportedly banned all sarcastic comments about its government and Kim Jong Un himself. The ban was announced at large meetings called by officials around the country at the end of August.
"One state security official personally organized a meeting to alert local residents to potential 'hostile actions' by internal rebellious elements," an unnamed person from Jagang province told Radio Free Asia. "The main point of the lecture was 'keep your mouths shut.'"
Among the phrases specifically prohibited is "A fool who cannot see the outside world," a phrase circulating among North Koreans as a mocking critique of their not-so-Dear Leader. Also banned is "This is all America's fault" — apparently the North Korean equivalent of "Thanks, Obama."
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