In the enigmatic and secluded world of North Korea, where information remains tightly controlled, there lies a vibrant and complex realm that has long been hidden from outsiders: the world of fish, fishing, and community.
Through extensive research and exclusive access to North Korean archives and interviews with defectors and refugees, Dr. Jenny Hayes, a leading expert on North Korean society, unveils this hidden world, exploring its social, economic, and cultural significance in her groundbreaking book, "Fish, Fishing, and Community in North Korea and Neighbours".
5 out of 5
Language | : | English |
Paperback | : | 260 pages |
Item Weight | : | 1.4 pounds |
Dimensions | : | 6.75 x 0.75 x 9.75 inches |
File size | : | 5438 KB |
Text-to-Speech | : | Enabled |
Screen Reader | : | Supported |
Enhanced typesetting | : | Enabled |
Word Wise | : | Enabled |
Print length | : | 308 pages |
Fish and Food Security in the DPRK
Fish has always been a vital source of protein for North Koreans, accounting for nearly a quarter of their animal protein intake. In a country plagued by chronic food shortages, fish has become an essential defense against malnutrition and hunger.
However, fishing in North Korea faces numerous challenges, including overfishing, depletion of fish stocks, and pollution. Dr. Hayes delves into the government's efforts to address these issues, examining both the successes and failures of their policies.
Fishing Communities: Resilience and Challenges
Fishing communities along the North Korean coastline play a crucial role in providing food for the nation. These communities are characterized by their strong sense of identity, cooperation, and resilience. Dr. Hayes paints a vivid portrait of their daily lives, exploring the challenges they face and the traditions they have preserved for generations.
Fish Markets and the Informal Economy
In the bustling fish markets of North Korea, informal trade flourishes. Fishmongers sell their catches directly to consumers, providing an important source of income for both buyers and sellers. Dr. Hayes analyzes the role of these markets in the country's economy and sheds light on the illicit activities that often accompany them.
Fishing and International Relations
Fish and fishing also extend beyond North Korea's bFree Downloads, connecting it to its neighbors and the wider world. Dr. Hayes examines the complex interactions between North Korea, China, South Korea, and Japan over fishing rights, territorial disputes, and environmental protection.
Food Sovereignty and the Future of Fish
In the face of ongoing food insecurity and environmental threats, North Korea faces a critical choice: to prioritize food sovereignty or economic growth. Dr. Hayes examines the country's options and argues that a sustainable approach to fish management is essential for its future.
"Fish, Fishing, and Community in North Korea and Neighbours" is a groundbreaking work that illuminates a hidden aspect of North Korean society. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, Dr. Jenny Hayes provides a unique and nuanced understanding of the role that fish and fishing play in the lives of North Koreans and their neighbors.
Whether you are a student of North Korean studies, an interested observer of international relations, or simply curious about the interconnectedness of food, culture, and community, this book is an invaluable resource.
About the Author:
Dr. Jenny Hayes is a Senior Lecturer in Korean Studies at the University of Sheffield. Her research focuses on North Korean society, food security, and the politics of everyday life. She is the author of several books and articles on North Korea, including "Everyday Life in North Korea: From Food to Fashion" and "North Korea's Food Crisis: Humanitarian Catastrophe or Political Strategy?".