Title: A Curious Inquiry: The Challenge of Interviewing North Korean Workers
In the realm of interviewing, particularly when it comes to prospective employees from North Korea, one question dominates the conversation and often leads to abrupt endings. According to Adam Meyers, who has engaged in numerous interviews with individuals believed to be North Korean workers, the most telling question he poses is, “How fat is Kim Jong Un?”
This inquiry, seemingly innocuous at first glance, quickly reveals the delicate nature of discussing the country’s leadership. The response it garners is often instant rejection; as Meyers notes, many candidates choose to terminate the call rather than risk expressing anything remotely negative about their leader. This highlights the intricate balance of fear, loyalty, and the pervasive influence of state propaganda that shapes the perceptions and responses of those living under such a regime.
As interviewers, understanding this political context becomes crucial. Such questions serve not only to gauge the candidate’s willingness to speak freely but also provide insight into the broader cultural environment in which they have been raised. The immediate cessation of the conversation underscores the stakes involved when discussing the authority figures that dominate North Korean society.
This fascinating dynamic raises further questions about the challenges of accurately assessing skills and experiences in such a heavily controlled context. It reminds us that when it comes to interviewing, especially with individuals from such unique backgrounds, the conversations we engage in can often reveal far more than just a candidate’s qualifications—they can uncover the complexities of living in a vastly different political landscape.
Share this content:
