Korean Children's Union
The Korean Children's Union is the precursor to the Kimilsungist-Kimjongilist Youth League of North Korea contributing to North Korean youth movement and pioneer movement. It is for children aged six to fifteen and is a political organisation linked to the Workers' Party of Korea. Its uniformed branch is known as the Young Pioneers, which admits children and pre-teens ages nine to 15. The organization operates chapters in elementary and secondary schools nationwide. It teaches children about the Juche Idea, and the ideologies behind the North Korean system. Youth above age 15 may join the Kimilsungist-Kimjongilist Youth League.
New children usually are formally welcomed on an important public holiday such as the Day of the Sun, the Military Foundation Day, or the Day of the Foundation of the Republic. It is considered an important occasion in a child's life. On such days, kindergarten-grade children are officially admitted and red neckerchiefs and pins handed out. Third graders from primary schools are usually welcomed to the YPC-KCU on investiture ceremonies on these days.
