13. Appointed housing
Buying or renting an appartement in North Korea is unlike anything you’re probably used to. The housing market in North Korea is void of any free market mechanisms. You’ll simply have to hope the government appoints you a house that’s to your liking. And if not: tough luck.
14. North Korean ‘internet’
The internet is a source for almost anything you could wish for. Of course, this means it’s a threat to North Korea’s dictatorial regime. Access to the internet as we know it is therefore strictly forbidden. There is an alternative internet, but it’s nothing like the internet you and I are used to, as it is a specific network set up and maintained within North Korea. It’s called ‘Kwamyong’, and according to estimations, it contains about a thousand to five thousand websites. Only information in line with the ruling party can be found here.
15. Blue jeans
It’s such a small thing and you probably won’t even stop to think about it, yet the colour of your jeans matters in North Korea. According to those in power, blue jeans are a symbol of western influence. If you happen to visit the country as a foreign tourist, you might get away with it – to an extent. If you’re planning on visiting the monuments for the deceased leaders Kim Il-Sung and his son Kim Jong-Il, you’re expected to wear something other than blue jeans. You know, as a sign of respect.
Visiting North Korea?
In short: freedom barely exists in North Korea. Even outside of the lockdown that’s essentially grounded international flights everywhere, the country would be a tough choice for tourists. Would you dare to go visit with all these rules?
Source: Brightside | Image: Unsplash