North Korea

North Korea

North Korea offers a unique and highly controlled travel experience, providing a rare glimpse into a reclusive nation with a rich history and distinct culture, though travel is strictly managed by the government. It's an experience for those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path destination.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$100/day
Mid-range$250/day
Luxury$1000/day

Known For

Democratic People's Republic of KoreaDPRKKoreaPyongyangEast Asia

πŸ‡°πŸ‡΅ Country Information: North Korea

CapitalPyongyang
CurrencyNorth Korean Won (β‚©)
Language Korean , Chinese, Russian
Phone Code+850
Electricity110/220V (Type A, C, F)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

\* Tipping is not customary or expected in North Korea

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are not widely available
  • Credit cards are not widely accepted
  • It is better to bring cash (USD, EUR, CNY)
  • There is a black market for foreign currency exchange

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting monuments or religious sites
  • Avoid open displays of affection
  • Do not directly question or criticize the government or leadership
  • Show respect for the leaders and their images
  • Do not distribute any unauthorized materials
  • Remove shoes when entering homes or specific cultural sites

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is not recognized and is culturally suppressed. There are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Alcohol consumption is permitted but restricted, especially for foreigners, and often limited to specific venues
  • Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties for even minor offenses

Special Laws

  • All tourism must be part of an organized tour with government
  • appointed guides
  • It is forbidden to travel independently
  • It is forbidden to take photos of military personnel or installations
  • It is forbidden to use local currency
  • It is forbidden to criticize the government or leadership
  • Visitors must respect strict ideological guidelines

Common Phrases

HelloAnnyeonghaseyo (ahn-nyuhng-hah-say-yoh) μ•ˆλ…•ν•˜μ„Έμš”
Thank youGamsahamnida (gahm-sah-hahm-nee-dah) κ°μ‚¬ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€

Climate

Generalized climate for North Korea.

Climate Zone: Continental Cool

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Pyongyang Cold Noodles (Naengmyeon) must_try

A popular noodle dish made from buckwheat or other starches, served in an ice-cold savory broth, often topped with pickled vegetables, sliced beef, an

Kimchi must_try

The national dish of Korea, this side dish consists of fermented vegetables, most commonly cabbage, seasoned with chili flakes, garlic, and ginger. In

Dububap (Tofu Rice) street_food

A simple and popular street food snack consisting of fried tofu slices that are stuffed with cooked rice. The top of each piece is typically finished

Soju alcohol

The best-known traditional Korean spirit, Soju in the North is typically stronger than that found in South Korea, ranging from 20-40% in alcohol volum

Nampo Petrol Clams regional_speciality

A local specialty from the west coast town of Nampo where clams are roasted using petrol (gasoline) as the fuel source. This unique cooking method giv

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

πŸ”΄ Must Book in Advance

North Korean Tour (Group or Independent) tour_or_activity
Book at least 1 month in advance

A tour must be arranged in advance, as all foreign visitors must join either a scheduled group tour or an arranged independent tour. The tour operator handles the visa process.

North Korean Visa permit_or_pass
Apply at least 1 month in advance

Processing time for the visa requires advance submission through an accredited tour company.

Fun Facts

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