North Korea’s state-run television had broadcast British film Bend It Like Beckham on December 26, which is said to be the first ever western made film to air on TV in the country.
The broadcast was arranged by the British embassy to mark the 10th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations. It was a rare treat for North Koreans whose state TV normally broadcasts self-boosting programs of its leaders, army, model farms and model villages.
The 2002 comedy, starring Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley, features a sport (football) beloved among North Koreans. The film is more about family values, interracial relationship and “bending” the social norms instead of the sport though.
