A Peek into NK | The Recluse State Put on Film

Before the exhibition, my idea of life in the moccasins of a North Korean is by and large everything seen in the documentary by VICE many years ago. Even then, it's more so the documentary confirming what I imagined the DPRK to be. But truth be told, so much of this elusive country is in murky waters, no thanks to the Kims and their fervent belief that the road to salvation is lining the perimeter of their island in nukes... and occasionally shooting it into the skies.

North of the DMZ is a photo series shot by Wong Maye-E, offering those who caught wind of this exhibition the dailies of the people in North Korea.

I think what struck me the most while touring this exhibition is the photographer's attempt to put the focus back to where it belongs: the people. When the topic of NK pops up, the narrative has largely revolved about violence and hostility, and we forget the most important commodity through it all.

Perhaps indeed, the labour and torture is true, yet through these photos - of families out in the beach, kids playing at the swings and people in their daily commute, it's not just a glimpse into the daily life, but proof of tenacity and resilience, of people making the most of the little they had. It's enthralling to learn that the natives are shielded, or disillusioned from the outside world, with propaganda weighed atop their shoulders, goodwill and the mentioned tenacity and resilience still radiated.

Through the stories, I always imagined North Korea to be rundown, and the lack of technology advances to be extreme, and it didn't even occur to me they've at least everyday commute like the train.

In globules of moments in solitude while viewing the photos, I'm reminded how lucky I am to be alive.