North Korea

North Korea: general info for travelers

North Korea, also known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country located in East Asia. It shares borders with China to the north, Russia to the northeast, and South Korea to the south. It is known for its highly centralized government, strict authoritarian rule, and self-imposed isolation from the rest of the world. The North Korean government is a single-party state led by the ruling Workers' Party of Korea and its leader Kim Jong-un. The country has a command economy, which means the state owns and directs all economic activity. Religion is strictly controlled, and freedom of expression and the press are severely limited. North Korea is also known for its nuclear weapons program and tense relations with the international community, especially the United States.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in North Korea, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

North Korea: places to visit

Travel to countries under political sanctions for human rights abuses such as North Korea should be well thought. However, in the spirit of providing useful information, I can list a few noteworthy places to visit in North Korea and their descriptions.
1. Kumsusan Palace of the Sun: The final resting place of North Korea's former leaders, Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, the palace is a mausoleum that offers a glimpse into North Korea's cult of personality. Visitors must wear formal attire and bow to the leaders' statues before entering.
2. Mount Kumgang: A beautiful mountain that is highly regarded in Korean culture, it is home to several temples, waterfalls, and hot springs. While it has been a popular destination for South Korean tourists in the past, tourism has been halted since 2008.
3. Kaesong: An ancient city that served as the capital of the Koryo Dynasty, it is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Kaesong Namdaemun gate and the Tomb of King Kongmin.
4. Ryonggang Hot Springs: A resort built around natural hot springs, the Ryonggang Hot Springs offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in North Korean culture and relax.
5. Pyongyang: North Korea's capital city has several attractions, including Ryugyong Hotel, a massive pyramid-shaped hotel that is still under construction after over 30 years. It also has the Juche Tower, a 170-meter-tall monument commemorating the country's ideology.
Note that it's important to exercise caution and be aware of North Korea's strict laws and regulations when visiting the country, and to obtain the necessary permits and visas beforehand.
There is more to see and do in North Korea: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

North Korea: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in North Korea, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
North Korea has four distinct seasons. The best months to visit North Korea are April to June and September to November. During these months the weather is mild and pleasant. Spring (April to June) is generally a good time to visit as the days are mild and sunny, and the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Summer (July to August) can be humid and hot, with heavy rainfall at times. This is also the peak season for tourists. Autumn (September to November) has mild temperatures and clear skies, making it a great time to visit the country. Winter (December to March) is cold and dry, with occasional snowfall. It can be a beautiful time to visit if you are interested in winter sports and outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that some tourist attractions may be closed during this season. It is always advisable to check the weather forecast for the specific time of your visit and pack accordingly.

North Korea: activities and what to do

North Korea is a country with limited tourism opportunities, and as such, there are relatively few activities and sports for visitors to engage in. However, there are a few options that travelers may be able to pursue during their stay: 1. Hiking: North Korea has some stunning mountain ranges, including the Paektu Mountain region. Hiking is a popular activity among locals and visitors alike.
2. Skiing: If you're visiting in winter, skiing is a popular activity in North Korea. Masikryong Ski Resort is the most famous ski area in the country.
3. Archery: Archery is a traditional sport in North Korea, and there are a few shooting ranges in Pyongyang and other major cities.
4. Taekwondo: North Korea is the home of Taekwondo and there are several dojos throughout the country where visitors can train in this martial art.
5. Visiting cultural sites: Finally, while not necessarily a sport or activity, visitors to North Korea can take in the country's rich culture by visiting historical sites, museums, and monuments.

North Korea: few words on history and culture

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), has a long and complex history. It has experienced various periods of foreign invasion, occupation, and influence from other nations, including China, Japan, and the Soviet Union.
North Korea's culture is heavily influenced by the country's communist ideology and the cult of personality that surrounds its leaders. The government heavily controls all aspects of culture, including media, literature, music, and art. North Korea is also known for its military parades, which showcase the country's military might and are often used as propaganda.
Despite this control, North Korea has its own unique traditions and customs, including traditional Korean dance and music, as well as its own cuisine. The Juche ideology, which emphasizes self-reliance and independence from foreign powers, is also a key aspect of the country's culture.

North Korea: how to move around on holiday

The most common way to reach North Korea is by air. There are several airlines that operate flights to Pyongyang, the capital city. The national carrier, Air Koryo, operates regular flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Vladivostok. Another option is to travel by train from China, either from Dandong or Beijing. It is also possible to enter North Korea by road from Dandong in China, but travel restrictions may apply. Once inside the country, visitors are generally transported by bus to their destinations. To hire a car to visit North Korea, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

North Korea: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit North Korea with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are the main typical foods of North Korea, along with a brief description of each: 1. Kimchi: Fermented vegetable dish made with cabbage, radish, garlic, ginger and spices. It is a staple dish in North Korean cuisine and is served with most meals.
2. Naengmyeon: Cold noodles made from buckwheat or potato starch. It is typically served in a clear, tangy broth with slices of beef or boiled egg, and garnished with sliced cucumber and pear.
3. Bibimbap: A mixed rice dish made with various vegetables, meat, and gochujang (spicy red pepper paste). The ingredients are arranged on top of the rice in a colorful and attractive manner.
4. Japchae: Glass noodles made from sweet potato starch stir-fried with vegetables, beef, and soy sauce. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer.
5. Pajeon: Savory pancakes made from scallions, eggs, and flour. It is often served with dipping sauce.
6. Mandu: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat and vegetables. It is a popular street food in North Korea and is often served as an appetizer or snack.
7. Kalbi: Grilled meat ribs marinated in a sweet soy sauce. It is a popular meat dish in North Korean cuisine and is often served during special occasions or feasts.
8. Gimbap: Similar to sushi, it is a Korean-style rice roll filled with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, eggs, and pickled radish. It is commonly served as a snack or lunch.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods that North Korea has to offer.

North Korea: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

North Korea has a reputation for being an expensive destination for travelers due to the tightly controlled tourism industry. The government-run tourism agency, Korea International Travel Company (KITC), sets high prices for tours and accommodations, which can result in higher overall costs for travelers. Additionally, most expenses (such as meals, transportation, and activities) are typically included in tour packages, which can drive up costs even further. However, the exact cost of a trip to North Korea can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the trip, the level of accommodation and transportation desired, and the specific itinerary chosen. It is important to note that tourism to North Korea is currently suspended due to COVID-19 and political tensions.

North Korea: where to find accodation

Foreign tourists in North Korea are required to stay in government-approved hotels, which are usually located in the capital city, Pyongyang. The most popular options for tourists are Koryo Hotel, Yanggakdo International Hotel and Ryanggang Hotel. These hotels offer a range of services and amenities, including restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. It is important to note that accommodation in North Korea can be quite basic compared to international standards, and some hotels may not have access to hot water or reliable Wi-Fi. It is advisable to book accommodation through a reputable travel agency or tour operator to ensure that all necessary arrangements are made and that your trip complies with North Korean regulations.
You can check hotel prices in North Korea here:
Booking.com

North Korea: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
North Korea is a highly restricted country in terms of tourism. According to the official statistics, the country received around 100,000 tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism has been severely restricted in the country. In terms of crowded periods, it depends on events and holidays in the country. For example, during national celebrations like the Arirang Mass Games or the Day of the Sun (the birthday of Kim Il-sung), there may be an influx of tourists. However, due to the current travel restrictions, it is difficult to predict what the future of tourism in North Korea will look like.
North Korea is generally not considered a safe destination for foreign tourists due to a number of reasons such as a lack of freedom of movement, limited access to information and communication, arbitrary detention, and the possibility of being subjected to criminal penalties for activities that are legal in other countries. It is important to note that there have been instances where tourists have been detained, interrogated, and subjected to harsh conditions in North Korea. Additionally, the country is subject to international sanctions and restrictions, which may limit access to basic amenities and medical care.
As an assistant, I would advise you to check the travel advisories issued by your government and to research the latest news updates on North Korea before planning a trip. It is also important to note that certain areas in North Korea may be off-limits or require special permits to visit. If you decide to travel to North Korea, it is highly recommended that you do so with a reputable tour company and follow all guidance provided by your tour guides to minimize risks.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in North Korea on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

North Korea: events for tourists

North Korea is known for its unique and controversial tourism industry. Some of the most interesting events for tourists in North Korea are: 1) Arirang Mass Games: This is the biggest performance in the world held annually between July to September in Pyongyang. Thousands of performers participate in a synchronized display of gymnastics, dance, and acrobatics.
2) Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il Birthdays: These are celebrated annually on April 15th and February 16th, respectively. Tourists can witness mass celebrations, fireworks, and parades at these events.
3) Victory Day: This is celebrated on August 15th and marks the end of World War II. Visitors can witness military parades and displays of firepower.
4) National Day: This is celebrated on September 9th to commemorate the founding of North Korea. Visitors can see parades, fireworks, and other festivities.
It's important to note that the North Korean government strictly controls and monitors all events, and tourists must follow strict rules and guidelines while attending them.

North Korea: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in North Korea, but it's difficult to suggest a travel itinerary because tourists have to follow the itineraries given by the local authorities. Indipendent travel is not possibile.

North Korea: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in North Korea described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Anju is a city located in the southern part of North Pyongan Province in North Korea. It has a population of around 240,000 people and is known for its rice cultivation and textile industry. Some popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anju
- Chasong, also known as Changsong, is a county located in the North Pyongan province of North Korea. It is located in the northern part of the country and is known for its natural beauty, with mountain... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chasong
- Chongjin is a city located in the northeastern part of North Korea, near the border with Russia. It is the capital of North Hamgyong Province and has a population of approximately 670,000 people. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chongjin
- Chongju is a city located in the North Pyongan province of North Korea with a population of approximately 200,000 people. It is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, as it was the s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chongju
- Chongsong is a small city located in North Korea, specifically in the North Pyongan province. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Chongsong Valley which is popular for hiking ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chongsong
- Chonma is not a known place or destination in North Korea. It could be a misspelling or a reference to a specific place or attraction. Can you provide more information or context so I can assist you b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chonma
- Chosan is not a well-known place in North Korea, and there is no official record of any city or town with that name in the country. It is possible that it is a misspelling of a different place or that... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chosan
- Haeju is a city located in the southwest part of North Korea. It is the capital of South Hwanghae Province and one of the country's most important seaports. With a population of around 236,000, it is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Haeju
- Hamhung is a city located on the east coast of North Korea, and it is the second-largest city in the country after the capital city of Pyongyang. It served as an important industrial and economic cent... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hamhung
- Hochon is a small town located in North Korea. It is situated in the northeastern part of the country, near the border with China. The town is known for its beautiful mountain scenery, and there are m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hochon
- Hoeryong is a city located in the northeastern part of North Korea, near the Russia-China border. It is the capital of the North Hamgyong province and has a population of around 200,000 people. The ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hoeryong
- Hyangsan is a scenic mountainous region located in North Korea. It is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, which includes stunning landscapes, waterfalls, hot springs, and pictures... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hyangsan
- Hyesan is a city located in the northern part of North Korea, close to the border with China. It is the capital of Ryanggang Province and has a population of around 200,000 people. The city is situate... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hyesan
- Kaechon is a city located in the Pyongan-namdo province of North Korea. It is situated in the southwestern part of the country and is known for its coal mines and heavy industry, particularly in the s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaechon
- Kaesong is a historic city located in the southern part of North Korea. It has great political, cultural and economic significance due to its strategic location near the border with South Korea. Kaeso... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaesong
- Kanggye is a city located in the north-central part of North Korea. It is the capital of Chagang Province and has a population of approximately 250,000 people. The city is situated in a mountainous ar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kanggye
- Mount Kumgang, also known as Diamond Mountain, is a mountain in Kangwon province, North Korea. It is a famous tourist attraction with scenic landscapes, waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking trails. Vis... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kumgangsan
- Musan is a city located in the northeastern province of North Hamgyong in North Korea. It has a population of approximately 100,000 people and is known for its mining industry, including the extractio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Musan
- Myohyangsan is a mountain range and national park located in North Korea. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, including scenic waterfalls, lush greenery, and a diverse range of wildlife. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Myohyangsan
- Nampo is a major port city in North Korea, located on the west coast of the country. It is the third largest city in North Korea with a population of around 800,000 people. Nampo is an important econo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nampo
- Onsong in North Korea is a politically sensitive area and there are strict limitations on sharing information about it due to government regulati... CONTINUE here for a trip to Onsong
- Pyongyang is the capital and largest city of North Korea, located in the southwestern part of the country along the Taedong River. As the center of the North Korean government and economy, it is one o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pyongyang
- Samjiyon is a town located in the Ryanggang Province of North Korea. It is situated in the northern part of the country, near the border with China. The town has a population of around 18,000 people a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samjiyon
- Sariwon is a city located in the southern part of North Korea, specifically in the province of Hwanghaenam-do. It has a population of approximately 310,000 people and is known for its rich cultural he... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sariwon
- Sinpo is a port city located in the eastern coast of North Korea, in South Hamgyong Province. It has a population of around 100,000 people and it is one of the largest port cities of North Korea. Its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sinpo
- Sinuiju is a city located in the western part of North Korea, bordering China. It is the capital city of North Pyongan Province and has a population of around 300,000 people. The city is an important ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sinuiju
- Sunchon is a city located in the South Pyongan Province of North Korea. With a population of approximately 300,000 people, it is known for its agricultural and industrial production, including rice cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sunchon
- Wonsan is a port city located on the east coast of North Korea, between Hamhung and Kumgangsan. It is the capital of Kangwon Province and has a population of around 330,000 people. It is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wonsan


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