North Korea might not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re planning a trip. But for those travelers who love exploring the unknown, it’s a destination that’s hard to ignore. There’s something quite special about experiencing a place so isolated and unique in the modern world. You won’t find McDonald’s on every corner here, and the Wi-Fi? It’s non-existent. That’s just scratching the surface of what makes North Korea such a different place to visit.
About North Korea
Officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea lies on the northern half of the Korean Peninsula. Its neighbor to the south is, of course, South Korea, separated by the infamous Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Most travelers only see one side of the DMZ, the tension-filled border, but North Korea has much more to offer if you’re up for it.
History and Politics
Much of North Korea’s current form stems from the Korean War, which ended in 1953 without a peace treaty. The country has developed into one of the most secretive and politically controlled nations on Earth. The Kim family’s leadership has played a dominant role, starting with Kim Il-sung, dubbed the “Eternal President”. His son, Kim Jong-il, and grandson, Kim Jong-un, have continued that strict governance.
This history is reflected everywhere in North Korea, from its monuments to the endless military parades. The country is heavily influenced by its own version of socialism—referred to as Juche—placing a strong emphasis on self-reliance. While this means control from the top is tight, it’s also a window into a way of life that has barely changed since the mid-20th century.
Culture
North Korean culture is an extension of its politics: everything revolves around the leadership and the state. You’ll notice portraits of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il wherever you go. Even the art you’ll see in Pyongyang, the capital, often involves imagery representing the country’s survival, loyalty, and glory under the Kim dynasty.
On your trip, expect to be introduced to various forms of cultural performance, from mass games to music where the themes celebrate nationalistic ideologies. There are also traditional elements worth mentioning, which existed before the regime. Despite the authoritarian environment, North Koreans enjoy simple pleasures like singing, dancing, and sports. You might even get to visit a local park to see local families relaxing or having a picnic.
Unique Cultural Elements
If there’s one thing that stands out, it’s the Arirang Mass Games. This is probably the largest choreography event you’ll ever see, with tens of thousands of participants performing in unison. It’s performed in Pyongyang and is almost always tied to state celebrations, anniversaries, or significant milestones. It’s an experience totally North Korean.
Another unique experience is visiting the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where the preserved bodies of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il rest. You’ll be expected to show the utmost respect when visiting, and this is one of those places where the seriousness of North Korean culture is deeply felt.
Major Cities
Pyongyang
Pyongyang, the capital, is unlike most cities you’ve been to. There is a mix of both brutalist Soviet-style architecture and some impressive architecture built to glorify the state. The Ryugyong Hotel—often called the “Hotel of Doom”—stands above the skyline. There are also countless monuments, including the famous Juche Tower. You’ll also see landmarks such as the Arch of Triumph, larger than its Parisian counterpart, and the Monument to Party Founding.
Despite strict societal controls, you might be surprised by how clean the city is. However, don’t expect to wander around at your leisure. Tourists in Pyongyang are always tightly supervised. You’ll have guides with you at all times. They’ll take you to specific places, and there will be little to no flexibility in your itinerary. This is just part of the deal when visiting.
Kaesong
Just northeast of the DMZ, Kaesong has a rich history as the former capital of Korea’s Koryo Dynasty. This makes it one of the few places in North Korea where you can see relics and understand a different layer of historical significance separate from the modern regime. It’s also one of the greenest cities you’ll visit and offers some scenic experiences, especially if you visit the old city gates or explore the pine forests nearby.
You can also visit Panmunjom, the village where the 1953 Armistice was signed. This is part of the DMZ tour and gives you a unique, up-close look at the standoff between North and South Korea.
Language
The official language of North Korea is Korean, but it differs slightly from what’s spoken in South Korea. Over the years, North Korea has purged many words they deemed to be foreign or Western-influenced, giving their version a more isolated feel—just like the country itself. However, most tourists won’t need to worry much about the language barrier since your government-sanctioned guides will likely speak English and help translate any conversations with locals.
Currency
North Korean Won (KPW) is the official currency, but it’s worth noting that tourists can’t just show up and exchange their home currency. You’ll usually be required to use foreign currencies like Chinese yuan, euros, or U.S. dollars in the shops you’re allowed to visit. This makes visiting North Korea very different from any other country where you usually explore with the local currency in hand.
Tourism in North Korea: What to Expect
Strictly Guided Tours
The one thing to understand about visiting North Korea is that it’s controlled tourism. You’ll be part of an organized tour and won’t have free reign to explore. You will almost certainly have two or more guides with you at all times, and they’re with you not just for guidance but also to ensure you’re following the rules. This can make the experience feel limited in some ways but also richer as you get a curated look into a world few get to see.
Highlights of a Visit
One of the key highlights is visiting Pyongyang, seeing all the massive monuments, and feeling the atmosphere that comes with it. The DMZ visit is another standout as you’re directly facing South Korea at the truce village, an eerie place that’s a living reminder of unresolved conflict. Other popular activities include going to museums that detail North Korea’s history and sometimes propaganda-styled exhibits showing the country’s view of the world.
Taking a ride on the Pyongyang Metro is also an interesting experience. It’s one of the deepest metro systems in the world, and the stations are designed with grandeur, some decorated with chandeliers, murals, and statues.
Photography
Photography in North Korea is a sensitive issue. You can’t photograph military personnel or anything that might show the country in a negative light. Your guides will likely tell you when and what you can take photos of. However, when you’re allowed, you’ll capture some beautiful images, whether it’s the futuristic feel of some monuments in Pyongyang or the peaceful atmosphere in the countryside near Mt. Paektu.
Final Thoughts
North Korea is not a typical holiday destination. It’s a place for those who want something completely different, something you can’t find anywhere else. Visiting this country can be both fascinating and sobering. It’s an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and experience a world that seems frozen in time. If you decide to go, just remember that this is a highly controlled trip, and travel restrictions will change your usual exploration habits. However, this is all part of the experience—and what makes tourism to North Korea so special.
Leave a reply