You may have noticed a bunch of foreigners in North Korea for Party Foundation Day recently. But what exactly is this holiday, how important is it, and why would foreigners be allowed in
Well, like everything in the DPRK, the answer is somewhat complicated. We will though give a Young Pioneer Tours explanation.
What is Party Foundation Day
Party Foundation Day marks the establishment of the Workers’ Party of Korea on October 10th 1945. It is celebrated every year on this date with ceremonies, mass performances, and public events. The holiday recognises the party’s central role in the country’s political and social life.
For over seventy years, North Koreans have commemorated the date with speeches, parades, and cultural activities across the country. The day is seen as a moment to reflect on the achievements of the party, its historical importance, and its continuing influence in the governance of the DPRK.
Who are the Workers’ Party of Korea
The Workers’ Party of Korea is the founding and ruling political party of the DPRK, and it has been central to the country’s governance since its creation. It was originally established in 1945 as the North Korean Branch of the Communist Party of Korea, shortly after the end of Japanese occupation. In 1946 it merged with the South Korean Communist Party to form the Workers’ Party of North Korea, which later became the Workers’ Party of Korea in 1949 following further organisational consolidation. These changes reflected both political strategy and the desire to unify communist and socialist forces under one party before the formal establishment of the DPRK in 1948.
The party’s ideology is rooted in Juche, the principle of self-reliance introduced by Kim Il-Sung, which combines nationalism, socialism, and a strong emphasis on independence from foreign powers. Under Kim Il-Sung, the party established its structure across central, provincial, and local levels, with committees in every city, district, and village. After Kim Jong-Il took over leadership, the party’s ideology evolved further with the introduction of the Songun, or “military-first,” policy, emphasising the armed forces as a central pillar of national strength while maintaining party control over political, social, and economic affairs. Under Kim Jong-Un, the party has continued to modernise its organisation while retaining tight control over the state, the economy, and public life.
The WPK organises social programs, economic planning, cultural events, and ideological education, ensuring its presence is felt in almost every aspect of daily life. It represents continuity, stability, and the guiding principles of the state. Through its history of name changes, policy evolution, and organisational expansion, the Workers’ Party of Korea has remained the backbone of the DPRK, linking its revolutionary origins to the contemporary structure of government and society.
Click to read my indepth piece about the Party.
Why is it so important
While the army is highly significant in the DPRK, the Workers’ Party of Korea represents the foundation of the country. It embodies Juche, the Paektu lineage, and the ideology underpinning the state itself. This is why Party Foundation Day is second only to the birthdays of the leaders in terms of national significance. Celebrations include mass performances, speeches, and ceremonial events that emphasise the party’s centrality to North Korean society.
The day is a demonstration of loyalty, historical continuity, and the enduring role of the WPK. It is treated with immense respect and receives intense media coverage, highlighting its symbolic and practical importance.
And back in the day it was one of the better times to be in the DPRK with major milestones at times even getting a miltary parade.
Why were foreign visitors allowed this year?
Foreigners are often invited because there is a significant international interest in studying Juche and the theories of Kim Il-Sung, Kim Jong-Il, and the Workers’ Party of Korea. The DPRK actively promotes these ideas and welcomes western visitors who want to learn about the party, its ideology, and its organisation.
These though are far from your average tourist trips with the main emphasis being on politics. All would have been memebers of friendship associations, or fraternal politcial groups. This would eveb exclude people such as Visit The DPRK.
Can I come to see it?
Back in the day this was 0ne of our most popular tours, but now it is not pssoible, Yes some foreigners visited this year, but these are fully fledgedd DPRK supporters not just those with a slight interest, or indeed country collectors.
We will though be back, one day….
Click to check out our North Korea Tours.
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