ISO: KP
Note: It is not advised to travel here for safety concerns
Embarking on a journey to North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive and isolated nations, requires meticulous planning and adherence to safety guidelines. From the enigmatic capital city of Pyongyang to the historical sites and unique experiences, North Korea offers a glimpse into a different world. This guide is here to help you understand the complexities of traveling to this destination and prioritize your safety throughout your visit.
Cities in North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of)
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Travel Risk Levels North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of)
Overall Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
High
Traveling to North Korea is considered high risk due to the strict government regime, limited access to information, and potential for arbitrary detentions. All actions in North Korea are heavily monitored, and deviations from approved activities can result in severe penalties.
Transport and Taxi Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
Medium
Transport in North Korea is state-controlled and tourists are generally not permitted to travel independently. While the official taxis might seem orderly, understanding local rules and protocols is essential to avoid unintentional transgressions.
Pickpocket Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
Low
Pickpocketing is not a common concern in North Korea, given the limited interactions tourists have with locals. Nevertheless, always be cautious with personal belongings.
Physical Crime Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
Medium
Physical assault or violent crimes against foreigners are rare, but the restrictive environment means any misunderstandings can escalate quickly.
Natural Disaster Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
Medium
North Korea faces risks of natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and occasional earthquakes. However, information about such occurrences might not be readily available to the public.
Terrorism Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
Low
There's a low risk of terrorism targeted at foreigners. However, the political climate means tensions can escalate rapidly.
Scams Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
Medium
While common scams as known in other countries might not be prevalent, travelers should be wary of strict regulations that, if violated, can lead to severe fines or detentions.
Women Travelers Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
Medium
Female travelers in North Korea should expect close scrutiny and adhere strictly to local customs and rules. Independent travel is not allowed, and interactions are limited, reducing risks associated with unwanted attention.
Tap Water Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
High
Drinking tap water in North Korea is not recommended due to potential contamination. Travelers should rely on bottled water.
Public Behavior Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
High
Public behavior is strictly monitored in North Korea. Tourists must show extreme respect towards leaders, local customs, and avoid any form of criticism or dissent. Photography is restricted, and any deviation can result in penalties.
LGBTQ Acceptance Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
High
LGBTQ+ rights are non-existent in North Korea. Any outward expression or behavior can result in severe consequences. It's crucial to remain discreet.
Police and Officials Corruption Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
High
Corruption is rampant, but interactions with officials are limited. However, travelers should be cautious and avoid any situation that might be interpreted as a bribe or inappropriate gift.
Business Risk North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of):
High
Business risk is high due to the unpredictable political climate, stringent regulations, and limited access to information. Any business dealings should be approached with caution and thorough understanding of local laws and customs.
An example of something bad that can happen travelling to North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of)
Visa Woes: An Unexpected Extension in North Korea
For most, a trip to North Korea represents a chance to peek behind the curtain of one of the world's most secretive nations. The country's strict regulations and guided tours promise a highly curated experience. However, as Michael, a seasoned British traveler, discovered, the unexpected can happen even in the most controlled environments.
Upon arriving in Pyongyang for his 5-day guided tour, Michael was eager to witness the nation's grand parades, historic sites, and unique culture. Everything went according to plan until the last day when, preparing to depart, he was informed that there was an issue with his visa. An administrative oversight had left him with a visa that was a day short.
Caught in a whirlwind of confusion, Michael was not allowed to leave the hotel. His guided tour had ended, and yet he was not permitted to explore on his own. The hotel became his temporary holding space, with limited interaction with the outside world. While his tour company scrambled to resolve the visa discrepancy, Michael tried to make the best of his unexpected extended stay, speaking with hotel staff and watching local television channels.
After what felt like an eternity but was only an extra 48 hours, the oversight was corrected and Michael was allowed to depart. He left North Korea with an even deeper appreciation for the freedom of movement he enjoyed elsewhere and a unique travel story that few could match.
This tale underscores the importance of ensuring that all travel documents are accurate and in order when visiting countries with strict regulations. While Michael's situation was resolved without major incident, it serves as a reminder of the potential complications that can arise when travelling to destinations like North Korea.
Safe Places
Be advised this list does not advise the cities/towns are safe for all tourists, safety is still relative to the country itself.
What are the safest places to visit in North Korea?
Note: It is not advised to travel here for safety concerns
- Pyongyang: The capital with monuments like the Juche Tower, Mansu Hill Grand Monument, and Kumsusan Palace of the Sun.
- Paektu Mountain: A sacred mountain and the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula.
- Kaesong: Historical city with a well-preserved old town and the DMZ.
- Wonsan: A port city known for its beaches and the Songdowon International Children's Camp.
Travel Tips
Useful Tips When Travelling to North Korea (DPRK)
Currency: The official currency is the North Korean won. However, foreigners are usually expected to use euros, Chinese yuan, or US dollars. It's essential to carry cash, as credit cards and foreign debit are not accepted.
Language: The official language is Korean. Not many locals speak English, but your government-appointed guides will. Learning a few phrases in Korean can be helpful, though interaction with locals is limited.
Historical Sites: The capital city, Pyongyang, has several monuments and museums showcasing the country's history, like the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun and the Korean War Museum.
Visas: All tourists, except for South Korean citizens, need a visa to enter North Korea. You must book a guided tour with an approved agency, which will handle the visa process for you.
Local Etiquette: Respect for the country's leaders is paramount. Avoid negative or critical comments about the government or its policies. Follow your guides' instructions closely and avoid unauthorized photography or wandering off on your own.
Top Attractions: Besides Pyongyang's landmarks, the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between North and South Korea is a unique experience. The scenic Mount Kumgang and the Masikryong Ski Resort are other highlights.
Connectivity: Internet access for foreigners is very restricted. While a local SIM card can be purchased for making international calls, it won't have data access. Prepare to be mostly offline during your trip.
Weather
Annual weather in Pyongyang, North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of)
Korea (Democratic People's Republic of) is hot, humid summers and cold winters. Best to visit in spring or fall.
| Month |
Avg Temp (°C) |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Avg Rain (mm) |
| January |
-5 |
23 |
12 |
| February |
-2 |
28 |
12 |
| March |
4 |
39 |
20 |
| April |
12 |
54 |
40 |
| May |
18 |
64 |
60 |
| June |
23 |
73 |
90 |
| July |
26 |
79 |
250 |
| August |
25 |
77 |
230 |
| September |
20 |
68 |
90 |
| October |
13 |
55 |
40 |
| November |
5 |
41 |
35 |
| December |
-2 |
28 |
18 |
