North Korea is one of the most closed and mysterious countries in the modern world. Despite extremely limited access to information, more is being learned each year about its internal structure, culture, and daily life. Much of what happens in North Korea seems unusual, and at times even unbelievable, from the perspective of an outside observer. These interesting facts offer a glimpse into the country’s unique nature and help explain how it differs from the rest of the world. You may not have known how many astonishing things are hidden behind its tightly controlled borders.
- The official name of the country is the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, though in practice it is an authoritarian state ruled by a single family. Since its founding in 1948, the country has been led by three generations of the Kim dynasty. The founder, Kim Il-sung, is still officially regarded as the “Eternal President” despite dying in 1994. This form of personality cult is unparalleled in today’s political landscape.
- North Korea uses its own calendar, which counts years from the birth of Kim Il-sung in 1912. This calendar is called the Juche calendar and is used alongside the Gregorian calendar. For example, the year 2024 corresponds to Juche year 113. It is another example of the country’s ideological uniqueness.
- The country has one of the strictest systems of information control in the world. The internet is available only to a select few, while most citizens access a closed internal network called Kwangmyong. This network has no connection to the global internet and includes only government-approved content. Owning foreign books or films can result in severe punishment.
- North Korea has a social classification system known as songbun, which divides citizens into loyal, wavering, and hostile classes. This classification affects a person’s access to education, employment, housing, and even food. The system is inherited and closely monitored. It is a key mechanism of state control over the population.
- Citizens are not allowed to move freely, even within the country. Travelling from one city to another requires official permission. For ordinary people, leaving the country is nearly impossible. Violating these rules can lead to harsh consequences.
- Leaders are treated with near-religious reverence. In schools, children study the biographies of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il and greet their portraits every day. These portraits are required in every home and institution and must be cleaned regularly. Failure to maintain them properly can be considered a crime.
- Pyongyang’s metro is one of the deepest in the world, with stations more than 100 meters underground. The stations are decorated with mosaics featuring party slogans and images of the leaders. Tourists are only allowed to visit a few select stations. The system also functions as a bomb shelter in case of war.
- Only government-run television and radio are allowed in the country. Broadcasts typically begin with the national anthem or news about the leadership’s achievements. All media is tightly controlled and serves propaganda purposes. Independent journalism and free expression are nonexistent.
- Very few people in North Korea own cars, and most citizens are not permitted to drive. The streets in major cities are often empty, with bicycles and pedestrians being the most common forms of transport. Cars are generally owned by the military or government. Car ownership is a sign of elite status.
- Mobile phones are allowed, but North Korea’s network is completely disconnected from international lines. Foreigners and locals use separate systems that cannot communicate with each other. Citizens cannot make or receive international calls. Communication with the outside world is strictly regulated.
- Tourists are allowed to visit North Korea only through pre-approved tours and must always be accompanied by government guides. Independent interaction with locals, unauthorized photography, and straying from the group are strictly prohibited. Breaking these rules may result in detention or deportation. Visitors must follow a fixed itinerary at all times.
- The education system emphasizes the Juche ideology and the lives of the country’s leaders. History is taught from a state-centered perspective, glorifying the ruling family. English is taught only from approved textbooks, which provide a distorted view of the outside world. The system is designed to instill loyalty above all else.
- Large-scale mass performances such as the Arirang Festival are held regularly and involve tens of thousands of participants. These events celebrate the regime and showcase national unity. Preparation takes months and participation is often mandatory for students and workers. They are broadcast nationwide as symbols of strength and discipline.
These fascinating facts about North Korea reveal a society completely shaped by ideology and state control. Every aspect of life is regulated and monitored, creating a reality far different from most parts of the world. You may not have realized how many millions live under such strict isolation and control. Yet despite this, the world’s curiosity about North Korea continues, as it remains one of the most enigmatic nations on Earth.
