The Pyongyang Old People’s Home was established over 70 years ago in Sungho County, North Hwanghae Province.
Thanks to the measure of the Workers’ Party of Korea and the government of the DPRK that highly appreciate the preceding generations for having made sincere efforts for the prosperity of the country and younger generations, respect and take care of them as revolutionary forerunners, it was newly built in the Munsu area on the bank of the Taedong River in 2015.
The old people’s home accommodates a hundred and scores of people. Early in the morning the elderly residents spend an hour or more at the flower garden or the hydroponic greenhouse to tend vegetables and flowers.
Kim Chi Ok, 94, is the oldest among the residents. She says that it is one of the keys to good health and longevity to work since early morning, breathing fresh air and smelling the scents of soil, grass and flowers. After tending flowers, she spends the rest of the morning hours in the library, writing a story of her own experiences during the Fatherland Liberation War (June 1950-July 1953). “It is no easy job, however,” she says frankly.
The old people are also seen in the fitness, recreation and movie rooms. The most crowded is the fitness room, where they can exercise with various appratuses, including multi-functional general massage chairs, exercise bikes and steppers. “Taking moderate exercise every day is good for health. I feel like I am being rejuvenated here,” says Sok Kyong Suk, who worked at the Pyongyang Timber Mill. The old people watch their favorite films in the movie room, and enjoy a karaoke session or play such folk games as janggi and yut, Korean folk games, in the recreation room.
At the old people’s home that is equipped with modern medical facilities the residents are benefited by free medical care system. When the old people greet their birthdays or holidays, not only the employees of the home, but also senior officials of the power organs and other people from all walks of life who visit it congratulate them. And dancing parties crown such days.
The residents of the Pyongyang Old People’s Home are leading a pleasant and happy life under the increasing social attention and concern for the elderly.
Residents of Pyongyang Old People’s House
Jong Chun Sil (aged 90): Foodstuffs and daily necessities, even cosmetics and underclothes, are given to us by the state free of charge. We have nothing to envy.
Han Song Su (aged 76): There is a song Let the Days Go By. It reflects our life in this home and becomes our favourite song.
Kim Chun Hwa (aged 78): When I came here 13 years ago, I suffered from severe spinal disease, even finding it hard to stand. But now I can walk on my own and take exercise.
