Version 73: What confounds North Korean counterfeit laborers: a single pressing question

The Intriguing Challenge of Interviewing North Korean Workers

In the realm of unconventional interview questions, one particular query has proven to be a conversation ender for many North Korean workers. Adam Meyers, a seasoned interviewer in this unique context, has observed a recurring theme that sheds light on the complexities of engaging with individuals from North Korea.

Meyers reveals his favorite question, posed during interviews with North Korean defectors: “What are your thoughts on Kim Jong Un’s physical appearance?” This seemingly innocuous inquiry often leads to an abrupt halt in dialogue, as candidates choose to disengage rather than risk voicing any negativity about their leader.

The response—or lack thereof—highlights the profound impact that political and social conditioning have on North Korean citizens, even when they are evaluating opportunities outside their homeland. The refusal to answer candidly speaks volumes about the fear and caution instilled in individuals who have grown up under a regime that promotes unwavering loyalty to its leaders.

This dynamic provides a fascinating glimpse into the psyche of North Korean workers and raises important questions about the challenges of navigating professional interactions across vastly different cultural landscapes. Through such encounters, we gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between personal opinion and practiced restraint that individuals from authoritarian regimes must often maintain.