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North Korea’s bizarre calendar system leaves people stunned at what year it actually is there
People worldwide were left stunned after learning about a unique aspect of North Korea’s time system. The revelation about how the country counts years has sparked widespread discussion on social media. North Korea, known for its secrecy and isolation, has had a distinct way of marking time, which is tied directly to the birth of its founding leader, Kim Il-Sung.
Previously, the country followed the Juche calendar, which started with Kim Il-Sung's birth on April 15, 1912. According to this system, the year 1 of the Juche era began on that date, and it continued for decades.
However, in recent years, North Korea quietly switched over to the Gregorian calendar, the system used by the majority of the world. As a result, 2026 is now the year in North Korea, though the Juche calendar is still ideologically significant to the regime.
Juche calendar vs. the Gregorian system
The shift to the Gregorian calendar means that North Korea is technically in the year 2026, although it still often refers to the year in terms of the Juche era. According to this system, the country will be entering year 114 of the Juche calendar in April 2026.
Despite the change, the regime's adherence to its founding ideology means that the new year will likely still be connected to Kim Il-Sung's legacy.
The move to the Gregorian calendar was initially reported in late 2024 by NK News. Senior analyst Hong Min explained that the switch could be interpreted as a way to emphasize Kim Jong Un's leadership in the present day, distancing the current era from past regimes.
He noted, "Of course, when viewed from a broader perspective, this may also serve to highlight the Kim Jong Un era more distinctly."
Social media reactions to the time shift
As the details about North Korea’s time system spread, people around the world expressed their surprise. On Reddit, users commented on how North Korea’s timekeeping system mirrored other countries with unique calendars, such as Japan and Taiwan.
One Reddit user pointed out: "The North Koreans can also prove without a shadow of doubt that he existed and did some things, though he also has his share of miraculous and supernatural claims."
Another Reddit user noted, "Japan keeps its own dates too -- it's currently Reiwa 5, for the fifth year of the Reiwa era." Others expressed the view that this kind of local calendar system is primarily for official or ceremonial purposes and does not change the way people in North Korea live their daily lives.