North Korea bans hot dogs

In a recent move to suppress Western cultural influences, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has banned the sale and consumption of hot dogs, deeming them symbols of decadent Western culture. Violators of this ban face severe punishments, including hard labor in the country's notorious labor camps.

This prohibition extends to dishes like budae-jjigae, also known as "army base stew," a Korean-American fusion dish that incorporates hot dogs or spam. Originating from meats discarded by US soldiers during the Korean War, budae-jjigae had gained popularity in North Korea since 2017. However, the regime now considers its preparation and sale acts of treason.

The ban is part of a broader campaign to eliminate Western influences, which Kim perceives as threats to North Korea's cultural identity. Other South Korean-inspired foods, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), have also been prohibited.

Additionally, the regime enforces strict regulations on fashion and entertainment, banning items like blue jeans and foreign media to maintain ideological control.

The regime's anti-Western rhetoric has intensified as it strengthens its relationship with Russia, supporting President Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine and opposing Western military interventions.