The National Anthem of North Korea

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A year before the establishment of North Korea in 1948, the government of the then Soviet-controlled sector of Korea adopted a new anthem (the one in use at that time was the anthem of South Korea). Interestingly, not only does the music of the North Korean anthem sounds vaguely like the South Korean anthem's music, but they also share a title. There has also been a "united Korean anthem" created by blending the melodies of the two nations' anthems seamlessly, used by some to promote Korean re-unification. The lyrics of "Aegukka (Pattiotic Song)were written by Pak Se Yong and the music was composed by Kim Won Gyun. The anthem was adopted for use in 1947.

Kim Won Gyun, was a famous Korean composer, born in 1917 and died in 2002. He dedicated himself to the development of music and the training of reserve artists of the country with distinguished artistic talent. In his honor, the construction of Kim Won Gyun Pyongyang Conservatory was completed as a grand seat for musical education in the Songun era. The conservatory, another monumental edifice, covers a plottage of five hectares on the bank of the River Taedong. His bust can be seen in the main building.

The stamp above, issued in 1998, features the musical notation and lyrics of the North Korean National Anthem, the North Korean flag and the Tower of Juche.

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