North Korea🇰🇵
North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), is located in East Asia on the northern half of the Korean Peninsula. It is bordered by China to the north and west, Russia to the northeast, and South Korea to the south. The country is known for its totalitarian regime, significant military capabilities and nuclear weapons program. North Korea is heavily forested, with beautiful mountains such as Mount Paektu, pristine streams, and the naturally beautiful East Korea Warm Current seascape. The capital city, Pyongyang, features diverse architecture and landmarks like the iconic Ryugyong Hotel and Juche Tower. Despite its political isolation, the country has a rich cultural heritage including the Arirang Mass Games, Kimchi cultural heritage, and the friendly local population.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Never criticize the DPRK government, its leaders or its political system as it can result in severe consequences.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics like human rights or international politics with locals.
- Steer clear of the Military Demarcation Line and the Civilian Control Zone areas along the border with South Korea without express permission.
- Avoid engaging in religious preaching or activities that could be perceived as proselytizing.
- Avoid any contact with the black market or any illicit activities.
- Do not try to access unauthorized information or media, including foreign broadcasts or internet while in the country.
- Avoid visiting without a guided tour as independent travel is generally not permitted.
- Do not take photographs without permission, especially of military installations or personnel, or anything else that might be construed as showing the country in a negative light.
- Do not attempt to collect any items or materials of potential political significance as souvenirs.
- Do not refuse or fail to follow instructions given by local authorities or your tour guide.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
8
The true crime rate in North Korea is difficult to determine due to the strict control of information by the government. However, it's believed to be relatively low. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. Nonetheless, issues related to organized black market activity and limited lawlessness exist. The most risky or problematic areas aren't generally accessible to foreigners.
Terrorism 💣
10
North Korea has experienced no significant instances of terrorism on its soil in recent years, largely because the government exercises strict control over its population. The risk of terrorism is therefore considered to be very low. There have been no known terrorist incidents or threats in any of its major cities.
War ⚔️
5
While North Korea is technically still at war with South Korea since the armistice agreement of 1953, actual military conflict is low but can escalate quickly due to political tension with South Korea and the international community. There have been periodic military incidents across the DMZ, but foreign civilians have so far never been targeted.
Natural Disasters 🌊
3
North Korea is prone to natural disasters like flooding and occasionally earthquakes. The most significant recent event was the severe floods in August 2020. The country is also significantly affected by drought, like the one in 2019 that led to food shortages. However, the government is often reluctant to seek international assistance.
Medical Care 🏥
2
North Korea's healthcare system is inadequate and poorly funded. The country suffers from chronic shortages of medical supplies and lack of modern medical equipment. Access to healthcare is especially difficult outside of the main cities like Pyongyang. The 2019 diphtheria outbreak is an example of its public health challenges.
Tap Water Quality 💧
2
The tap water quality in North Korea is generally poor, particularly outside of the main cities. It is advised for residents and visitors to boil tap water before consumption or opt for bottled water. In 2019, due to drought, water scarcity became a significant issue nationwide.
Disease Burden 🤒
3
North Korea has a high burden of infectious diseases including tuberculosis and hepatitis B. The prevalence of malnutrition also contributes to a high disease burden. In 2020, the country declared a state of emergency due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, but officially has reported zero cases.
Corruption 💸
1
Corruption is widespread in North Korea at all levels of society. It's often an essential means of survival for many North Koreans due to the economic hardship. Several reports highlighted the widespread bribery and abuse of authority by officials as a major social issue.
Safety for Women ♀️
4
While North Korea purports to have gender equality, there are significant gender disparities and abuses. There are numerous reports of gender-based violence and discrimination, and there's a lack of support for victims. However, the risk of harassment or assault for foreign women is perceived to be low.
Safety for Queer People 👬
1
North Korea is not a safe environment for queer individuals. While homosexuality is not explicitly illegal, societal norms and lack of legal protections contribute to a repressive environment towards LGBTQ+ community. Discrimination is widespread, and there are reports of punishments against homosexual activity.
Censorship 📺
1
North Korea is one of the world's most censorship-heavy countries. The state maintains strict control over all forms of media and the internet. Unauthorized access to foreign broadcasts or online content can result in severe punishments, as was demonstrated multiple times like the arrests linked to the banned foreign pop culture in 2020.
Public Transportation 🚌
5
In cities, public transportation in North Korea is usually functional but often crowded. Accidents are not common but when they do occur, can be severe given the age and condition of many vehicles. One such example being the 2014 bus crash in North Hwanghae that resulted in numerous fatalities.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
North Korea is generally safe for foreigners who follow rules and regulations strictly. The government keeps tight control over all activities and interactions. However, it's important to be aware of the political situation, strictly follow local laws, always respect the local customs and avoid any sensitive or unauthorized activities. Personal safety is generally assured, but freedoms and protections are severely limited.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Several countries have embassies in Pyongyang, including China, Russia, and Germany. The United States does not have an embassy in North Korea and is represented by the Swedish embassy on its behalf.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Travelers to North Korea should be up-to-date on routine vaccines. These vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and yearly flu shot. Hepatitis A and B and Typhoid vaccinations are also recommended.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
There are very few dangerous animals or insects in North Korea. The country is home to the endangered Amur leopard and Siberian tiger, but encounters with these animals are extremely rare as their habitats are mainly limited to the remote, mountainous regions.
🛂 Visa Requirements
All foreign nationals (except Malaysia and Russia) wanting to travel to North Korea are required to obtain a visa in their home country before they travel. They must be part of a pre-booked organized tour to be granted a visa. Special permits required for travel to some regions.
💲 Currency
The North Korean won is the country's official currency. However, tourists are often required to pay in foreign currency (USD, EUR, or CNY). Money exchange facilities are available in Pyongyang.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are not widely accepted in North Korea. Most goods and services for visitors must be paid in cash.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
North Korea currently does not offer opportunities for work and travel. Almost all visitors to the country are expected to be part of guided tours, and there are strict restrictions and governmental controls on foreigners working in the country.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Travel to and living in North Korea can be expensive due to the requirements for guided tours. While local products and services are relatively cheap, the cost for tourists is inflated by these requirements. Due to the economic isolation and sanctions, availability of goods can be limited.