Computing In Isolation: Looking at North Korea's Red Star Linux
The tale of Red Star is one of tracking, control and containment. It’s hard to be a user of technology and have to pick a side of the fence to sit on. Apple over Android. Windows over Linux. Freeware over Payware. However, one operating system quietly stands out not only for its unique features but also for the intriguing geopolitical context in which it was developed. Enter Red Star Linux, an operating system born in the heart of North Korea, designed to provide its citizens with a distinct digital experience. While most operating systems are products of international collaboration and technological evolution, Red Star Linux offers a glimpse into the controlled and isolated digital environment of North Korea. Developed under the guidance of the country’s government, this operating system presents a blend of functionality, ideology, and technological autonomy that sets it apart from its mainstream counterparts. In this article, we embark on a journey to uncover the intrigui...