Peek Behind the Propaganda: An Ironic Expedition to Pyongyang's News Factory It's often said that the pen is mightier than the sword. But what if the pen were a colossal, armor-plated conveyor belt churning out typewriters full of feel-good vibes and sunny-side-up news, twenty-four hours a day? Amid potholes, intermittent electricity, and glorious, unending hunger pangs, we went on an ironic expedition to Pyongyang's News Factory – the birthplace of the world’s only remaining propaganda-loving typewriters. There's no better time than now to delve into the fascinating world of North Korean journalism – especially when one's only subject is, invariably, the ethereal brilliance of North Korea itself. Readership isn't just guaranteed at the Pyongyang's News Factory – it's booming, it's obligatory, and it's wonderfully predictable. Filing in, we were greeted by the General Secretary of Infallibility, who led us into the vast newsroom where an estimated five million writers work diligently on under one solitary bulb. When we asked about writer diversity, the secretary simply replied, "Yes, we have both types – dedicated writers, and dedicated writers under threat." Worried about their families, the latter type works twice as fast. "They're very motivated," he added. Their motto, "One leader, one narrative, one news," left no doubt about the wealth of editorial freedom enjoyed by the North Korean press. The content recipe is deceptively simple: mix equal parts compliments for the leadership, occasional end-of-the-world threats for the rest of the globe, and, to keep things fair, never-ending self-censorship. "The truth is, news just flows in Pyongyang like nowhere else,” whispers one of the senior editors, while perfecting an article proving Kim Jong-un has never had a typo in his life. “Sometimes our journalists have to be guided on which facts are wrong and which facts are factually less right.” The atmosphere in the newsroom is surreal. That is, if the newsroom had a better supply of synonyms for "perfect", "infallible", and "paradise on earth." But Pyongyang's News Factory is a shining example of resourcefulness – even when faced with a blank page, they can always find words for praise. Creativity is not only encouraged at the news factory, but it is essential, especially when there is only one name in the papers. But all work and no play makes Kim a dull boy, and so, every day at 4 AM, a group of sharply-dressed typewriter repairmen break into a highly choreographed song-and-dance routine, set to the tune of the latest government-approved single. After all, in the highly competitive world of typewriting, you've got to do it Gangnam style. So, next time you think you’ve read something interesting in the news, take a moment to appreciate the tireless hands behind Pyongyang's News Factory. For their very lives may depend on your appreciation – and yours on theirs. And in a delightful paradox, this is one story where the phrase “Don’t shoot the messenger” fails to elicit a single smirk.