In a surprise move drawing both curiosity and confusion worldwide, North Korea has officially announced the launch of the Peace Games 2025, a state hosted international sporting event that will ban all electronic devices including phones, smartwatches, and digital cameras from athletes, coaches, and spectators.
The announcement was made during a televised address by Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un, who called the games a “return to human purity and discipline.” The Peace Games, scheduled for October, will feature traditional sports such as wrestling, archery, footraces, and martial arts but with a twist: no scoreboards, no broadcasts, and no modern technology.
“The world is enslaved by the digital,” Kim stated. “In the Democratic People’s Republic, we revive the spirit of raw human power.”
Invitations were sent to over 70 countries, with Russia, Iran, and Venezuela reportedly confirming participation. However, many Western nations, including the U.S., Germany, and South Korea, have declined, citing “security concerns and transparency issues.”
Athletes participating in the games must undergo a “digital cleansing quarantine” for two weeks upon entry into North Korea, where their devices will be held in state-controlled safes for the duration of the event.
Also Read: President Trump Threatens 50% Tariffs on EU Imports, Signals Possible Levies on Foreign-Made iPhones
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) issued a neutral statement, acknowledging the event but clarifying it is “not affiliated” and “does not meet global sport governance standards.”
Critics say the Peace Games are a propaganda effort designed to boost North Korea’s global image while isolating participants from modern communications. Activists warn the rules could be used to limit foreign contact and media coverage.
Still, the regime is promoting the games as “the most honest competition on Earth.” A state-produced trailer released online features sepia-toned footage of runners in traditional attire and the slogan: “Win with your body, not with your bandwidth.”
Despite skepticism, thousands of North Korean citizens have already been mobilized to build stadiums and living quarters. Western media outlets are currently barred from attending.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Join the conversation by leaving a comment below. Keep it respectful, relevant, and on-topic - we love hearing from our readers!