North And South Korea Reports The Monumental Korean Family Reunions Differently In Their Media Publications
Yonhap News Agency reported on Friday that 255 South Koreans from 90 families arrived at Sokcho city on Friday for the second batch of the three-day Korean family reunions at the scenic Mount Kumgang resort in North Korea set take place from Saturday to Monday.
The first batch of reunions on Tuesday was attended by another 96 families who were again separated on Thursday as South Koreans leave for their country bidding their loved ones from North Korea goodbye with a heavy heart.
Washington Post made an observation on Thursday on how the North and South Korea reported the recently ended first batch of Korean family reunions.
According to the American online publication, the front pages of many South Korean newspapers showed the tear-jerking photos of the reunions between Korean families who were separated for 62 years due to the 1950-'53 Korean War.
On the other hand, North Korea's newspapers highlighted Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un's affairs, including his visit to the new Scientists' Street "befitting the requirements of a highly civilized nation," attendance at a concert and the gift he received from the deputy head of the general political department of the Vietnam People's Army who recently paid him a visit.
The Workers' Party newspaper of North Korea, Rodong Sinmun, allotted three pages to report on Kim's events.
A brief report on the Korean family reunions was included at the bottom of Rodong Sinmun's fifth page.
And while South Korean newspapers highlighted the personal stories of separated family members, North Korean news publications exploited the event to emphasize the country's "socialist system" and Kim Jong Un's leadership.
"Those from the north told their separated families and relatives from the south about the fact that they and their families are enjoying a happy and worthwhile life in the Korean-style socialist system," reported the North's KCNA.
The North also emphasized their contribution to the monumental reunion, barely recognizing the efforts of the South Korean Red Cross who was responsible for organizing the event.
"The reunion of separated families and relatives from the north and the south made thanks to the initiative measure of the DPRK and its warm compatriotism is taking place in the worldwide concern of all Koreans," added KCNA. "The reunion of the families divided between the North and South came about as a result of our leadership and our deep feelings for fraternity."