German photographer Dieter Leistner's 'Korea -- Korea' photo series provides a fascinating and eye-opening comparison between typical public scenes in Pyongyang and Seoul, the capital cities of highly controlled, rigid and mysterious North Korea and ultra-modern, liberal South Korea respectively.
Leistner secured special permission to capture photos on Pyongyang, and contrasts them with photos of South Korea to present the divide between the two societies. Each photo of Pyongyang is paired with a corresponding photo of a similar public space in Seoul. For example, there are paired photos of streets, public transport and important public buildings.
'Korea -- Korea' has a special meaning to Leistner, who grew up in then-divided Germany, which was split into West and East Germany.
Korean Divide Photos
The 'Korea -- Korea' Series Contrasts Public Scenes in North and South Korea
Trend Themes
1. Contrasting Societies - Leistner's 'Korea -- Korea' series provides an opportunity to explore the differences between North and South Korea in a visual format.
2. Political Photography - By securing special permission to photograph in Pyongyang, Leistner offers a unique perspective on a country that is typically hidden from outsiders.
3. Cross-cultural Comparison - 'Korea -- Korea' inspires a broader examination of cultural differences between neighboring countries, and how they manifest in public life.
Industry Implications
1. Travel and Tourism - Leistner's photographs of Pyongyang could inspire increased interest in visiting North Korea, while the contrasting shots of Seoul showcase the city as a travel destination in its own right.
2. Journalism and Documentary Production - Leistner's unique access to Pyongyang opens up opportunities for other journalists or documentarians to explore this secluded country in new ways.
3. Art and Photography - The 'Korea -- Korea' series is a powerful example of socially-conscious photography, which could offer inspiration to artists and photographers working across different genres.