North Korea warns against 'hostile speech,' bans sarcasm

SEOUL, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- North Korea warned residents against making sarcastic comments against leader Kim Jong Un and his regime, saying such "hostile actions" will not be forgiven.

Residents were warned about using phrases that include "It's all America's fault," used to imply criticism against the Kim's regime, Asian media reported. Government leaders issued the warnings during mass meetings across the country beginning in August.

"One state security official personally organized a meeting to alert local residents to potential 'hostile actions' by internal rebellious elements," Radio Free Asia reported. "The main point of the lecture was 'Keep your mouths shut!"

Another common expression, "A fool who cannot see the outside world," was also used as an example of banned speech. The comment became popular after Kim was absent last year from celebrations in China and Russia to mark the anniversary of the end of World War II.