체제전환이론 분석모델로 본 북한 방송법의 단계 진단과 발전 방향 - 중국, 베트남, 몽골과의 비교를 중심으로

This study applies a five-stage analytical model grounded in transition theory and media development theory to conduct a comparative and empirical analysis of North Korea’s broadcasting law, situating the findings alongside cases from China, Vietnam, and Mongolia. Despite North Korea’s broadcasting legislative system exhibiting comprehensive legal structure and systemic coherence, the research demonstrates that the country’s broadcasting law remains largely at the initial, state-monopoly and absolute-control phase of development. The regime enforces strict top-down control by the Party and state across all facets of broadcasting―including organization, personnel, technology, programming, and content approval―leaving no legal basis for autonomy, market adaptation, or content diversity. While there has been some formal change, such as the appearance of entertainment or lifestyle programming, these are used exclusively for regime propaganda and reinforcement of control, not for true diversification of information. Technological advancements and digitalization are introduced exclusively to strengthen state objectives, with external media content, the internet, and satellite broadcasting facing rigorous legal prohibitions. The study concludes that North Korea’s broadcasting law is clearly positioned within the first stage (state-monopoly/absolute-control type) of the five-stage transition model. Prospects for change are analyzed along three scenarios―continued rigidity, gradual flexibility, and transitional openness―with special attention to structural variables such as technological advancement and domestic demand, noting possible but limited future policy shifts. The research addresses the constraints of empirical data and long-term comparative follow-up, acknowledging limitations in analyzing the gap between legislative reform and media practice. Nonetheless, the analysis offers practical implications for inter-Korean broadcasting cooperation and the formulation of East Asian media governance strategies.