National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇰🇵 Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of)

The national anthem of North Korea (officialy Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) is called: « Aegukka ».

Continent: Asia

Bordering Countries:
– 🇰🇷 Korea (Republic of)
– 🇷🇺 Russian Federation

History of « Aegukka »

« Aegukka » (The Patriotic Song) is the national anthem of North Korea. The anthem reflects the country’s revolutionary spirit, its cultural heritage, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1947: The lyrics of « Aegukka » were written by Pak Se-yong, a North Korean poet. The music was composed by Kim Won-gyun, a North Korean composer.
  • 1947: The anthem was officially adopted as the national anthem of North Korea in 1947, two years after the end of Japanese colonial rule and the division of Korea into North and South.

Anecdotes

  • Post-Colonial Identity: The adoption of « Aegukka » in 1947 was part of North Korea’s efforts to establish a distinct national identity following the end of Japanese colonial rule. The anthem symbolizes the country’s aspirations for independence, unity, and progress.
  • Revolutionary Themes: The lyrics of the anthem emphasize themes of patriotism, revolutionary spirit, and the natural beauty of North Korea. It reflects the deep connection of the North Korean people to their land and their pride in their cultural heritage.
  • Cultural Significance: « Aegukka » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the North Korean people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among North Korean citizens.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Korean

아침은 빛나라 이 강산
은금에 자원도 가득한
삼천리 아름다운 내 조국
반만년 오랜 력사에

찬란한 문화로 자라난
긍지 높은 인민의 이 나라
길이 받드세 우리 조선
길이 받드세 우리 조선

In English (translation)

Shine bright, you dawn, on this land so fair,
Abundant with resources, rich and rare.
Three thousand leagues of splendid land,
A history of five millennia grand.

With a culture bright and vibrant,
This land of pride and people's might,
Forever may it stand, our Korea,
Forever may it stand, our Korea.

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