Park Jin Chul, still under the influence of meth and slightly intoxicated, expectorated into his palm and extended it towards Ri Kwang Hyuk’s face, commanding his subordinate to consume the saliva.
Facing his former classmate, now his superior in the North Korean army, Kwang Hyuk contemplated yielding to the authority Jin Chul wielded. However, witnessing Jin Chul’s unchanged negligent demeanor and his undeserved leadership position based on family status, Kwang Hyuk stood his ground defiantly.
Unmoved by Kwang Hyuk’s resistance, Jin Chul seized him by the throat and forcefully pinned him against the wall, displaying his dominance.
The recently released short film “Two Soldiers,” directed by defector Jeong Haneul, captures the essence of life in the North Korean military, portraying the injustices perpetuated by the songbun system of inherited social status rather than solely focusing on the challenges faced by soldiers.
Jeong Haneul, who escaped to South Korea in 2012, emphasizes that the primary message of his 23-minute film is to shed light on the inequities entrenched within North Korea’s songbun system, which dictates individuals’ opportunities and treatment based on their family backgrounds.
The songbun hierarchy in North Korea is structured such that those with esteemed lineage tracing back to Kim Il Sung’s anti-Japanese resistance movement enjoy privileges and preferential treatment, including expedited paths to political affiliations, elite education, and luxurious living conditions in Pyongyang. Conversely, individuals with lower songbun, often descendants of collaborators with Japan or perceived criminals, face severe limitations, restricted access to education, and menial job assignments.
Jeong’s cinematic narrative draws from his personal journey, highlighting the struggles of individuals like Kwang Hyuk, whose experiences mirror the challenges of those from less privileged backgrounds in the military. The character of Jin Chul symbolizes the entitled and abusive figures that exploit their connections and social standing for personal gain within the oppressive system.
While the portrayal of Jin Chul may seem exaggerated, Jeong clarifies that it is a reflection of the harsh realities he witnessed during his military service in North Korea. The film underscores the systemic discrimination perpetuated by the regime, showcasing the stark disparities in treatment and opportunities based on one’s songbun classification.
As Jeong’s cinematic endeavor unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of the systemic injustices prevalent in North Korean society, urging viewers to contemplate the profound impact of inherited status and the enduring quest for freedom and equality amidst oppressive circumstances.