(Democratic People's Republic of Korea, 조선민주주의인민공화국, Chosŏn Minjujuŭi Inmin Konghwaguk)
Note: No merchandise offered for sale on this site originated in North Korea
North Korea Flag
- Location: East Asia
- Capital: Pyongyang
- Language(s): Korean
- Population: 25,234,686
- Total Area: 120,540 sq km
- Currency: Won
- Curious Alcohol Fact: There are wines made from rice in North Korea.
- Annual Average Liquor Consumption Per Capita: Data unavailable
- Most Popular Drink(s): Soju
Located in the northern part of the Korean Peninsula in East Asia, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (also known as the DPRK) is a nation that has not ceased to baffle the world. A country almost totally cut off from the rest of the globe, North Korea is so secluded and isolated that scholars have referred to it as the ‘Hermit Kingdom’. Entry into the country is strictly restricted and as a tourist, it may not be quite easy for you to visit this beautiful country. The nation’s capital is Pyongyang and it has South Korea has its neighbor to the south and China to the north. Both countries are technically still in a state of war and there is the Demilitarized Zone, which acts as buffer between the two Koreas.
Like the island nation of Japan, which is not too far, North Korea is one of the most homogenous countries in the world as almost 100% of the citizens are classified as Koreans. There is a very tiny population of migrants from Japan, China and South Korea. Alongside South Korea, the most widely used language in the country is Korean although there are different dialects. Unlike many nations of the world, more than 60% of the citizens do not follow any faith and are often classified as atheists. Others adhere to Buddhism, Shamanism, Cheondoism and Christianity. The absolute ruler of the country is the legendary Kim Jong-Il.
Food in North Korea is somewhat similar to what obtains from other parts of the Korean Peninsula. Most of the meals are made from noodles, rice and tofu. In many cases, vegetables and fruits are often added. Rice can be made into flour to make a rice cakes known as tteok and there are various types of tteok. Spices are also added to the meals and the commonly used spices are black pepper, red pepper, onions, garlic and ginger. For protein, North Koreans consume beef, pork, chicken and seafood (especially shellfish, oysters and clams).
As it is with the other nations in East Asia, tea is widely taken in North Korea and is called cha. Wines made from rice are also popular and are of different types, and there are some tasty wines made from herbal extracts. The most popular alcoholic drink is soju, and is made from cereals, especially rice.
If you are fortunate enough to gain entry to the country, there are many wonderful places to visit. In the capital city of Pyongyang, there are numerous monuments such as the Juche Tower and museums that you need to visit. The spectacular Arirang Festival also draws tourists from different countries and you will surely find it interesting and quite vibrant. For those interested in mingling with other locals and tourists, especially those from South Korea, the best place for you is the Kumgangsan Tourist Region. Wherever you visit in the country, always remember that discussing politics is off limits!
Although many see North Korea as one of the most isolated nations in the world, it is quite impressive when it comes to sports. The most popular sports event in the country is the famed Arirang Festival which is held on a yearly basis. Major sports in the country include football, Korean martial arts, hockey and gymnastics.
- North Korea is one of the most secretive nations in the world.
- North Koreans have an astounding sense of loyalty to their leader and country.
- Entry into and exit out of the country are strictly regulated.
- Criticism of the leader in North Korea is strictly forbidden.
Story By World By Shotglass
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Special thanks to our contributors:
Adebayo Ahmed Adebola (Ilorin, Nigeria).