The word 'Oppa' is apparently blocked in North Korea, and the government even taps into every citizen's phone.

From a mobile phone that was successfully smuggled out of North Korea, the fact of extreme censorship was finally revealed. One of the most shocking things is the ban on the use of popular terms from South Korea. Words that are popular around the world have actually become something taboo in North Korea.

One example of the banned word is the term "oppa," which is very commonly used by women in South Korea. This word is usually used to refer to an older brother, boyfriend, or even a favorite male idol. However, in North Korea, this word is considered problematic and is completely blocked.

The fact that the word "oppa" is banned was first revealed through a BBC investigative report that highlighted how the North Korean regime conducts strict censorship against foreign culture. What are the complete facts? Let's take a look at the following review to find out.

1. "Oppa" Becomes a Blocked Word in North Korea

Censorship of the Word "Oppa" (credit: instagram/bbcnews)

In South Korea, "oppa" is a term filled with affection, commonly used to refer to a boyfriend or favorite male idol. However, in the North Korean mobile system, the word "oppa" is automatically replaced with "comrade".

Not only that, a warning message also appears: "This word may only be used for your siblings."

2. The Term "South Korea" is Replaced with "Puppet State"

Kim Jong Un (credit: koreaboo.com)

Censorship is not only applied to casual words but also to geographical terms. When users type "South Korea", the phone will immediately replace it with "puppet state". This reflects the official view of the North Korean government, which is hostile towards and belittles its southern neighbor.

3. Government Surveillance

North Korean government wiretapping via mobile phone (credit: instagram/bbcnews)

More than just censoring words, North Korea's mobile system also quietly monitors user activity. The phones periodically take screenshots and store them in a hidden folder that can only be accessed by the authorities.

According to the BBC, this system is part of a major effort to prevent the influx of outside content, such as K-Dramas and South Korean variety shows that are often smuggled in USB drives for citizens to secretly enjoy.

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(kpl/psp)