Party Foundation Day
Party Foundation Day is a public holiday in North Korea that commemorates the founding of the Central Organizing Committee of the Communist Party of North Korea in 1945. It is always observed with political speeches and lectures, song and dance performances, and floral tributes laid in front of statues of Kim Il Sung.
Observed on the 10th of October, it is considered one of the most important holidays in North Korea, sharing its status with other significant holidays such as the Day of the Foundation of the Republic, the Day of the Sun, and the Day of the Shining Star.
The History of Party Foundation Day
In Pyongyang, North Korea, on October 10, 1945, the Conference of Korean Communist Party Members and Enthusiasts in the Five Northwestern Provinces was held. This meeting took place at the location that is now the Party Founding Museum.
Three days later, the conference resulted in the establishment of the North Korea Bureau of the Communist Party. After the conference concluded, Kim Il Sung emerged as a significant political force.
Kim Il Sung advocated for the foundation of the North Korean Bureau to oversee party activities in the north. He deemed this necessary because both the northern and southern parts of Korea were occupied by the Soviets and the Americans, respectively.
How Party Foundation Day Is Observed
This holiday is observed with numerous festivities. Food supplies that are usually unavailable or in short supply are distributed to the population through special food rations. Meat is also made available through the public distribution system.
Despite widespread shortages of electricity throughout the year, electricity is typically provided to the public on this holiday. This ensures that state-sponsored television programs and ceremonies can be enjoyed by the masses. In Pyongyang, military parades and processions attract millions of people. Most businesses, banks, and government institutions are also closed on this day.