By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Young Iranians born in the 2000s tell Independent Persian that Iran will never become another North Korea, despite the Islamic Republic's increasing repression and censorship following January 2026 protests. They say their generation is shaped by protest and unwilling to submit to restrictions imposed by the state.
‘This generation will never remain silent’
Milad, a 23-year-old business management student, says Iranian youth have courage and an overwhelming desire to live freely. He believes his generation refuses to accept a government that dictates every aspect of their lives. Ghazal, a secondary school student, adds that young people will not forget the executions, repression, and stolen lives, and that determination shows society cannot be silenced through fear.
Economic hardship will not break resistance
Amirali, a 24-year-old computer science student, warns that the wealth gap will widen and the economy will fall further under mafia-like networks, but insists economic hardship will not break people's spirit. He says Iranians may become poorer but will not let the regime have an easy time.
Silence after crackdown masks deep anger
Shayan, a 23-year-old architecture student, argues that the lack of visible protests since January's bloody crackdown does not indicate acceptance. He says fear has turned into deep anger, and society is waiting for another opportunity to rise up, which distinguishes Iran from North Korea.
Confrontation on Tehran streets
Ehsan, a 20-year-old barista, describes young people confronting government forces and Basij militiamen nightly, knowing they could be shot or arrested. He says this willingness to confront shows intimidation has failed to make society accept the status quo.
‘Never’ – society has already chosen
Parnian, a sixth-form student, emphatically says Iran will never become North Korea, believing society has already made its choice. Arash, a 21-year-old estate agent, notes that while the regime mirrors North Korea in controlling information, Generation Z's concern for rights and freedoms will prevent complete subjugation.
