Inside North Korea: 22 Surprising Things You Can’t Do
30 Everyday Things Banned in North Korea: From Photos to Foreign Films
North Korea, often referred to as the Hermit Kingdom, is notorious for its strict restrictions and closed-off nature. The country’s leader, Kim Jong-un, goes to great lengths to maintain control and limit outside influences. Here, we delve into 30 common things that are either banned or heavily restricted in North Korea, giving you a glimpse into the unique way of life within this isolated nation.
- Taking Photos: While tourists are allowed to take photos during their visits to North Korea, there are significant limitations. Photos of military personnel and construction sites are strictly off-limits, and some images might even be deleted at customs before leaving the country.
- Coca-Cola: North Korea stands out as one of the only two countries in the world where you won’t find Coca-Cola. However, the country has its own fizzy drinks, like Ryongjin Cola, to quench the thirst of its citizens.
- Hairstyles: The North Korean government dictates a specific range of approved hairstyles for men and women. Even the length of hair is regulated, with different rules for married and single women.
- Sanitary Pads: Disposable sanitary pads are a luxury for many women in North Korea due to their high cost. Instead, women often make their own pads using gauze.
- Birth Control: Birth control methods are banned, which has led to condoms being considered valuable items on the black market. The government aims to increase the country’s birth rate.
- Unsupervised Travel: Foreign visitors are typically accompanied by guides during their time in North Korea. Independence in exploring the country is heavily restricted.
- Abortions: Like birth control, abortions are illegal in North Korea to boost the birth rate. Economic challenges often lead couples to have only one child.
- Property Ownership: Private property ownership is prohibited. The government assigns citizens places to live for specific periods, maintaining tight control.
- Subway Exploration: Tourists were previously limited to traveling between two stations on the Pyongyang subway, but now they can explore the entire metro system.
- Starbucks Absence: While you won’t find Starbucks in Pyongyang, there are local coffee shops for caffeine enthusiasts.
- Foreign Media: Access to foreign radio and TV is banned to prevent exposure to outside influences, including Western culture.
- Western Magazines: Western lifestyle magazines are off-limits to North Korean citizens, and the government tightly controls printed media.
- Internet Blackout: The internet as we know it is forbidden in North Korea, with citizens only having access to the state-controlled intranet.
- International Calls: Making international calls is prohibited, and cell phone usage is closely monitored by security services.
- Pop Music Concerts: K-pop is banned, but North Korea has its own version of girl bands, such as the Moranbong Band, hand-picked by Kim Jong-un.
- Apple Products: U.S. sanctions prevent the export and sale of Apple products to North Korea, though the ruling elite might have access to them.
- Car Ownership: Private car ownership is strictly limited, with vehicles registered under national organizations.
- Luxury Cars: Sanctions make it nearly impossible to acquire luxury goods, including sports cars, in North Korea.
- International Travel: North Koreans are not allowed to travel abroad and must find entertainment within the country.
- Public Singing: Public gatherings involving singing, drinking, and entertainment are banned due to sanctions.
- Sarcasm Ban: Making sarcastic comments about Kim Jong-un or the regime is forbidden, as the leader fears ironic agreement.
- Foreign Films: Watching foreign movies is illegal to prevent citizens from questioning the regime. Secret screenings still take place.
In this list of banned or restricted items, we glimpse the unique realities of life within North Korea—a country shrouded in mystery and isolation.