While it's the same anchorwoman reading the weather news, she's not nearly the same in terms of her gestures, which show a marked contrast from the earlier news format.

She now stands in front of a large screen displaying a satellite image of the Korean Peninsula, and on Sunday, she used hand gestures to explain in a kind manner that there would be thickening clouds. North Korean anchors are usually seated in news programs.

In contrast to an artificial and inflammatory tone of voice -- a default familiar to those who keep tabs on North Korea -- the weathercaster stressed her words with controlled intonation and rhythm.

She softly tapped the screen to move on to the next picture like she was using a touchscreen, in what appears intended at proving that the North is capable of employing modern technology in the news program, although it cannot be verified.

The weathercaster even made a blunder at one point during the program, when she repeatedly read part of the script to keep in line with the movements of the graphics. Making a mistake while on air was considered a serious breach of conduct and is known to be subject to heavy punishment.

Observers said such a change in the mode of news broadcasts, although most were probably meticulously programmed, can be seen as another attempt by the North to show that its regime is a modernized state and is pushing for more changes. (Yonhap)