The North Korean authorities have reportedly reminded citizens that they could face execution if they indulge in watching South Korean television shows.

According to Radio Free Asia, the regime has been hosting lectures in South Hwanghae province, in the west of the country near the border with South Korea, to demand that residents abstain from watching “decadent video materials of capitalism".

A source told the outlet’s Korean service that police officials began hosting lectures in the province in the new year.

“In a recent lecture, they told us they are aware that a growing number of people are able to manipulate the frequencies [of their televisions] to watch South Korean TV programmes,” the source said.

“They said that regardless of any individual’s status, those caught in violation could be executed by firing squad. [They want to] instill fear,” the source added.