Introducing Chongryon, The Large Pro-North Korea Organization In Japan

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Surprisingly, within Japan there exists a large organization known as the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan (commonly called Chongryon) which supports North Korea — a country that is internationally isolated.

This organization is composed overwhelmingly of people of Korean Peninsula origin living in Japan. It was established in 1955 and operates in Japan.

The organization’s primary role is to support the daily lives of Korean residents in Japan and to maintain their community. For example, in the field of education, it operates its own schools across the country, known as “Korean schools,” where students are taught the Korean language and culture. They also learn North Korean history and ideology, according to accounts from teachers and students as well as reporting. The organization works to preserve ethnic identity through cultural activities and events.

In addition, Chongryon engages in advocacy for the protection of the rights of Korean residents in Japan. It has raised issues related to discrimination and the improvement of social status. There are also some Japanese intellectuals who have defended Chongryon’s schools.

On the other hand, Chongryon is considered to have close ties with the North Korean government, and it has long been the subject of political debate both within Japan and internationally. North Korea faces international criticism for systematic human rights abuses. Chongryon has reportedly supported North Korea through remittances and trade. The Japanese government has cracked down on Chongryon, including measures to halt remittances to North Korea.

Although the exact number of members is not publicly disclosed, it is generally believed to be in the tens of thousands. The organization once had strong cohesion within the Korean community in Japan, but it has face a decline in membership.

The main reasons for this include increasing assimilation into Japanese society, a growing number of people switching affiliation to South Korea as it has become more prosperous and the worsening image of North Korea.

As a result, Chongryon’s influence has declined significantly compared to its peak, with reductions in affiliated facilities and growing financial challenges being noted. While the organization still exists today, its ability to mobilize on a large scale and its social presence have both weakened compared to the past.

Yoji Gomi is an experienced journalist who has written extensively on Korean Peninsula affairs, especially North Korea.