kim il sung

North Korea

There is quite simply nowhere on Earth like North Korea. Now on its third hereditary ruler, this nominally communist state has defied all expectations and survived the collapse of the Soviet Union to become a nuclear power. A visit to North Korea offers a glimpse of the world's most isolated nation, where the internet and much of the 21st century remain relatively unknown, and millions live their lives in the shadow of an all-encompassing personality cult.

The compromises required to travel here are significant. You’ll be accompanied by two state-employed guides at all times and hear a one-sided account of history while being bussed from sight to sight. Those who can’t accept this might be better off staying away – but those who can will undertake a fascinating journey into another, unsettling world.

North Korea 조선민주주의인민공화국 - Capital Pyongyang - Area 120,540 km2 - Population 25,549,604 - Attractions Mass Games, Mansuade Grand Monument, Goguryeo Tumulus, Pyongyang Metro, Triumphal Arch, USS Pueblo, DMZ