Patriotism as a System-forming Principle in the Genre-thematic Paradigm of Fine Arts in North Korea

The article considers the theme of patriotism in the fine arts of the DPRK. It is argued that North Korean artists, working within the strict framework of Juche realism, strive to convey the idea of ​​patriotism no matter what they depict and no matter what genre they turn to. The comprehensive direction of “ideological painting”, chujehwa, which forms the aesthetic and content side of the creative process in the DPRK, often levels out the genre division. It is reduced to key plots and motifs, the main task of which is the propaganda of patriotism. The images of North Korean leaders, presented in an inextricable connection with the fate of the nation and the homeland, are analysed as the most striking example of patriotic pathos in the fine arts. The idea of patriotism makes it possible to develop a visual chronicle of the exploits of an individual hero and an entire nation, acting according to a certain “heroic” scheme and corresponding to the canon of selfless loyalty to the fatherland. Moreover, it makes it possible to rethink the military theme in the DPRK painting in an original way. The theme of labour is also subordinated to the concept of love for the socialist homeland, raising everyday life to ideological heights. The fine arts of North Korea attach great importance to the themes of women, motherhood, family, youth and sports, which are used as messengers for patriotism. Even landscape painting, which has deep national traditions, carries a powerful ideological message designed to instil a sense of awe and pride in the viewer, and to strengthen devotion to their country. The equally ancient Flowers and Birds genre, in addition to its aesthetic content, emphasises the theme of abundance, prosperity, and social contentment. Naturally, the poster, being deeply politicised and ideological, also has a patriotic feel. The author concludes that the patriotism motif is central in the fine arts of the DPRK. To artists, North Korean propaganda dictates a vision of patriotic ideas as a standard and unchanging set of themes that they are obliged to reflect in their work.