Inminban (People's Units)

The People's Units, or Inminban, are the smallest administrative units in North Korea. Comparable to the 'dong' and 'ban' levels of administrative organization in South Korea, they mainly consist of full-time homemakers and retired workers.

Titled "Harmonious Inminban," this article was featured in the Rodong Sinmun on May 12, 2022, highlighting the formation and management of Inminban in the same residential area. / Photo by Rodong Sinmun

The origin of North Korea's Inminban can be traced back to 1946, at the onset of land reforms when they were organized nationwide as social cooperation units under the People's Committee of North Korea. During this period, land area statistics were aggregated based on Inminban, village, Ri (administrative division), and Myeon (administrative division).

Following the immediate aftermath of Korea's liberation from Japanese rule, North Korea established the 'Inminban' as the smallest administrative control organization to effectively manage its citizens. This organization is led by a head, known as the banjang, who is nominated at the city or county (district) people's committee office based on recommendations from residents. Typically, women from loyal and reputable families are selected for this role. Other members of the Inminban include the household head, sanitation head, and propagandists. Originally composed of 20-30 households, urbanization and the rise of apartment buildings led to a restructuring in 1994, expanding the Inminban to encompass 20-40 households.

North Korea defines the Inminban as "an organization comprising a specific number of households, established to uphold the policies of the Party and the state, execute state-social tasks, and prudently manage daily life." Operating as a system that addresses local concerns, such as childcare, sanitation mobilization, and maintaining public order, the Inminban relies on processes like general meetings.

In June 22, 2021 issue, Rodong Sinmun showcased residents viewing 'film documentation' of the 3rd plenary session of the 8th Central Committee of WPK, including a photo of a family from an Inminban in Songphyong District, Chongjin City. / Photo by Rodong Sinmun

After the 'Arduous March,' a period characterized by economic crisis and famine in North Korea, the regime aimed to tighten control over its citizens by strengthening the Inminban system. In addition to the Inminban leader, there is also a household head. While the Inminban leader supervises the overall activities of the group, the household head specifically oversees the husbands of families. Especially in Pyongyang since the mid-1970s, these household heads have the authority to organize meetings, mobilize members, give lectures, and most importantly, monitor and report the activities of residents after work hours. This role establishes them as influential figures within the community.

People working in general administrative agencies often avoid living in agency apartments to escape the surveillance of the local Inminban. Moreover, as the state distribution system becomes inadequate and markets expand, organizational solidarity is waning, resulting in a decline in the vibrancy and role of the Inminban compared to the past.