The Oprah Winfrey Show Season 21 Episode 18 Lisa Ling Takes A Rare Trip Inside North Korea

Lisa Ling Takes A Rare Trip Inside North Korea is the 18th episode of season 21 of The Oprah Winfrey Show, where Lisa Ling, a journalist and television presenter, takes the audience on a rare and unprecedented journey into the isolated and secretive country of North Korea. Lisa Ling travels to North Korea with a camera crew, accompanied by a state-appointed guide who monitors their every move. The episode focuses on the unique perspectives and insights Lisa Ling gains during her visit to the country, exploring the country's culture, political regime, and the daily lives of its citizens.

Lisa Ling's journey into North Korea begins with a visit to the capital, Pyongyang, where she is greeted with a display of synchronized dancing by youths and visits the Pyongyang Metro, renowned for its stunning architecture. She also visits the city's monumental Kim Il-sung Square, named after the founder of North Korea, and the iconic Juche Tower, a symbol of the country's self-reliance philosophy. With her guide, Lisa Ling also gets the opportunity to visit the Ryugyong Hotel, a 105-story unfinished pyramid-shaped construction that has been in progress since 1987.

As the episode progresses, Lisa Ling travels beyond the grandeur of Pyongyang into the rural areas of North Korea, accompanied by her guide. The audience is given insights into the daily struggles and challenges faced by the average North Korean citizen, from housing problems to food shortages. The episode also highlights the widespread propaganda and censorship imposed by the North Korean government, where citizens are only allowed limited access to the outside world.

One of the unique aspects of the episode is the focus on the education system in North Korea. Lisa Ling and her camera crew visit a school where they get a glimpse into the deeply ingrained communist ideology pushed on young students. In the episode, Lisa Ling highlights the emphasis on loyalty, obedience, and reverence for the regime instilled in students from the earliest years of their education. Teachers and students alike participate in ideological training and nationalistic programs like a military-style graduation ceremony held towards the end of the school year, exemplifying the dedication to the regime evoked in all participants.

Lisa Ling's visit to North Korea is also an opportunity for her to interview several locals, from factory workers to farmers. With the help of her guide, she converses with them, giving the audience a chance to understand the people's true experiences and perspectives. In these interviews, the locals voice their opinions on the regime and share their hopes and dreams for the future, revealing the deep-rooted patriotism and loyalty to their country, despite its many flaws.

Despite the challenges and obstacles Lisa Ling faces during her visit, she manages to capture a rare glimpse into North Korea's society and culture. The episode provides a unique perspective on the isolated communist nation and showcases the significant differences between the Western and Eastern cultures. The episode highlights the complexities of life in North Korea and the diligent control exerted by the regime. It also gives a sense of the resilience of the people of North Korea and their steadfast devotion to their country.

Overall, Lisa Ling Takes A Rare Trip Inside North Korea is an informative and intriguing episode that captures the kaleidoscopic diversity of North Korea. With her insightful interviews and captivating footage, Lisa Ling provides viewers with a rare opportunity to glimpse the inner workings of one of the world's most enigmatic and isolated countries.