North Korea is a country located in East Asia, bordered by China, Russia, and South Korea. Its capital is Pyongyang, and the official language is Korean. The country has a population of around 25 million people. North Korea is a socialist state, with a government led by the Workers’ Party of Korea. The country’s economy is largely centralized and heavily controlled by the state, with limited access to international trade and investment.

North Korea is known for its secretive and isolated nature, with limited access for foreigners and strict control over media and information. The country has also been criticized for its human rights abuses and nuclear weapons program. Relations with other countries, particularly South Korea and the United States, have been strained due to ongoing tensions and conflicts. Despite efforts to improve relations, North Korea remains a highly controversial and unpredictable presence in the global community.

ABOUT

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country situated in East Asia. It occupies the northern portion of the Korean Peninsula, and it shares borders with China and Russia to the north, and South Korea to the south. The western border of the country is formed by the Yellow Sea, and the eastern border is defined by the Sea of Japan. Pyongyang is the capital city and the largest city in North Korea.

In 1910, Japan annexed Korea, and after Japan’s defeat in World War II in 1945, Korea was divided into two zones along the 38th parallel, with the Soviet Union occupying the north and the United States occupying the south. In 1948, separate governments were formed, with the socialist and Soviet-aligned Democratic People’s Republic of Korea established in the north, and the capitalist and Western-aligned Republic of Korea established in the south. The Korean War began in 1950 when North Korea invaded the south, and it lasted until 1953. Although a ceasefire was established through the Korean Armistice Agreement, a formal peace treaty has never been signed.

After the Korean War, North Korea received significant economic aid and expertise from other socialist countries, especially the Soviet Union and China. However, the country’s relations with the Soviet Union soured, and the country eventually turned to China. The ruling Workers’ Party of Korea purged both pro-Soviet and pro-Chinese elements and promoted the Juche philosophy as the state ideology. In the 1970s, South Korea’s economy began to grow, while North Korea entered a period of economic stagnation. North Korea’s international isolation accelerated sharply in the 1980s and continued after the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. The country suffered a famine from 1994 to 1998 that caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people, and the population continues to face malnutrition.

North Korea is a totalitarian dictatorship with a comprehensive cult of personality around the Kim family. The ruling party of North Korea is the Workers’ Party of Korea, which leads the Democratic Front for the Reunification of Korea, the only legal political movement in the country. According to the state constitution, North Korea is an “independent socialist state,” and the official ideology is Kimilsungism-Kimjongilism. The means of production are owned by the state through state-run enterprises and collectivized farms, and most services such as healthcare, education, housing, and food production are subsidized or state-funded.

North Korea follows a “military first” policy called Songun, which prioritizes the Korean People’s Army in state affairs and resource allocation. The country possesses nuclear weapons and has one of the highest numbers of military and paramilitary personnel in the world, with approximately 30% of its population serving in the military or reserves. North Korea has been criticized for its human rights abuses by various international organizations, and the country’s human rights record has been described as “unparalleled” in the contemporary world. North Korea is a member of the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, G77, and the ASEAN Regional Forum.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

The official name of North Korea is the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

The term “Korea” comes from the Goryeo Dynasty, which ruled the Korean peninsula from the 10th to 14th centuries. The word “Koryo” is derived from the Middle Korean word “Goli” which means “high and clear.” Over time, the name “Koryo” changed to “Korea” in English.

The name “North Korea” was adopted after the division of Korea in 1945, following the end of World War II. The country is located in the northern half of the Korean Peninsula, and is bordered by China to the north and Russia to the northeast.

The term “Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” was adopted in 1948 when the country was established as a socialist state under the leadership of Kim Il-sung. The word “democratic” in the name refers to the country’s claim to represent the people’s democratic will, while “people’s” refers to the socialist principles on which the country is founded.

The country is also referred to as “Choson” in North Korea, which is derived from the name of the ancient Korean kingdom of Joseon. The term “Choson” means “Land of the Morning Calm” in Korean.

In summary, the name “North Korea” refers to the country’s location in the northern half of the Korean Peninsula, while the name “Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” reflects its socialist government and its claim to represent the will of the Korean people. The name “Choson” is a reference to the country’s ancient history and culture.

HISTORY

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country in East Asia that occupies the northern half of the Korean Peninsula. Here is a detailed overview of North Korea’s history:

ANCIENT TIMES: The Korean Peninsula was inhabited as early as the Lower Paleolithic period (about 500,000 years ago), and by the 1st century BCE, several Korean kingdoms had emerged. The Three Kingdoms period (1st century BCE – 7th century CE) saw the kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla vie for control of the peninsula. Goguryeo, which occupied much of what is now North Korea and parts of China and Russia, was the most powerful of the three kingdoms.

MIDDLE AGES: Goguryeo eventually succumbed to the combined forces of Silla and Tang Dynasty China in the 7th century CE. Later, the kingdom of Balhae emerged in the north, which lasted until it was conquered by the Khitan Liao dynasty in 926 CE. The Khitan were in turn overthrown by the Jurchen Jin dynasty in 1127 CE, which ruled over much of Korea for the next century.

MODERN TIMES: In the late 14th century, the Korean kingdom of Joseon was founded, which ruled over the entire peninsula for more than 500 years. In the late 19th century, however, Korea became a pawn in the power struggles between the Qing Dynasty of China, which had long exerted a dominant influence over Korea, and imperial Japan, which was seeking to expand its own sphere of influence.

JAPANESE OCCUPATION: In 1910, Japan annexed Korea and ruled the country with an iron fist until the end of World War II in 1945. During this time, Koreans were forced to adopt Japanese names and language, and their culture and identity were suppressed.

DIVISION OF KOREA: After Japan’s surrender, Korea was divided into two zones along the 38th parallel: the Soviet-backed North and the U.S.-backed South. In 1948, separate governments were established in each zone, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was founded in the north, while the Republic of Korea was established in the south.

KOREAN WAR: In 1950, North Korea invaded South Korea, triggering the Korean War, which lasted until 1953 and resulted in the deaths of millions of Koreans and the division of the peninsula into two hostile states.

POST-WAR ERA: After the war, North Korea was heavily dependent on economic aid and expertise from other communist countries, particularly the Soviet Union and China. However, relations between North Korea and the Soviet Union soured in the 1950s, and Kim Il-sung, North Korea’s first leader, turned to China instead. In the late 1950s, Kim purged both pro-Soviet and pro-Chinese elements from the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea and promoted his personal philosophy of Juche as the state ideology.

From the 1970s, South Korea’s economy began to boom while North Korea entered a state of stagnation. Pyongyang’s international isolation sharply accelerated from the 1980s onwards as the Cold War came to an end and China opened up to the West. The fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 then brought about a full-scale collapse of the North Korean economy. From 1994 to 1998, North Korea suffered a famine that resulted in the deaths of between 240,000 and 420,000 people, and the population continues to suffer from malnutrition.

TODAY: North Korea remains one of the most isolated and repressive countries in the world, with a totalitarian

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

North Korea is a socialist state and a self-proclaimed dictatorship of the people. It is governed by the Workers’ Party of Korea, which was founded by Kim Il-sung, the country’s first leader. The party holds a monopoly on political power, and its ideology of Juche emphasizes national self-reliance, independence, and sovereignty.

The Supreme Leader of North Korea is currently Kim Jong-un, who succeeded his father, Kim Jong-il, in 2011. The position of Supreme Leader is largely symbolic, but it holds significant power over the government and the country’s policies. Kim Jong-un is also the Chairman of the Workers’ Party of Korea and the Chairman of the State Affairs Commission, the highest decision-making body in the country.

North Korea’s government structure consists of several branches. The legislative branch is the Supreme People’s Assembly, which is made up of 687 members elected for a five-year term. However, the elections are not free and fair, and the Workers’ Party of Korea effectively controls the Assembly.

The executive branch is led by the State Affairs Commission, which is responsible for the overall management of the country’s political, military, and economic affairs. The commission is chaired by the Supreme Leader and includes other high-ranking officials in the government.

North Korea’s legal system is based on the principle of socialist law. The country’s constitution, adopted in 1972, provides for a range of civil and political rights, including freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. However, these rights are not upheld in practice, and the government suppresses dissent and opposition to its policies.

Despite its authoritarian government, North Korea has made significant progress in certain areas. The country has a universal healthcare system, and the government provides free education to its citizens. It has also made strides in technological development, particularly in the fields of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.

North Korea’s foreign policy is characterized by its emphasis on national sovereignty and independence. The country maintains close ties with China and Russia, and it has sought to expand its diplomatic relations with other countries in recent years. North Korea’s participation in international organizations, including the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement, has also increased.

In conclusion, while North Korea’s government is highly centralized and tightly controlled by the Workers’ Party of Korea, it has made progress in certain areas such as healthcare, education, and technological development. The country’s foreign policy emphasizes national sovereignty and independence, and it has sought to expand its diplomatic relations with other countries.

ECONOMY

The economy of North Korea is heavily controlled by the state and operates under a centrally planned system. The government owns most of the country’s means of production, and the economy is highly dependent on state-run industries and agriculture.

North Korea’s economy suffered greatly following the collapse of the Soviet Union, which had been a major economic partner and source of aid. The country’s isolation from the international community, coupled with economic sanctions, has also had a significant impact on its economy. Despite these challenges, the North Korean government has implemented various economic policies and reforms over the years in an effort to improve the country’s economic situation.

One of the key components of North Korea’s economy is the mining industry, which includes coal, iron ore, and other minerals. The country also has a small but growing tourism industry, primarily focused on Chinese visitors. Agriculture is another important sector, with rice, corn, and potatoes being the main crops. North Korea also has some manufacturing industries, including textiles, chemicals, and machinery.

The government has attempted to develop special economic zones (SEZs) in an effort to attract foreign investment and boost economic growth. These SEZs offer various incentives to foreign businesses, including tax breaks, cheap labor, and access to infrastructure. However, progress in developing these zones has been slow, and foreign investment in North Korea remains limited.

In recent years, North Korea has made some efforts to reform its economic system and promote entrepreneurship. In 2014, the government announced a new set of economic policies, including measures to give managers of state-run enterprises more autonomy and allow farmers to keep a larger portion of their crops. In addition, some small-scale private markets have emerged, providing opportunities for individuals to buy and sell goods outside of the state-controlled economy.

However, despite these efforts, North Korea remains one of the poorest countries in the world, with a GDP per capita estimated at around $1,700 USD in 2021. The country also suffers from chronic food shortages and relies heavily on external aid to feed its population. Sanctions imposed by the international community have also had a significant impact on the economy, limiting North Korea’s ability to trade with other countries and access vital resources.

GEOGRAPHY

North Korea is a country located in East Asia, on the northern half of the Korean Peninsula. It shares a land border with China to the north and northwest, and with Russia to the northeast. To the south, North Korea shares a heavily fortified border with South Korea, known as the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The country has a total area of 120,538 square kilometers (46,541 square miles), making it slightly smaller than the US state of Mississippi.

North Korea’s terrain is primarily mountainous, with about 80% of its land covered by mountains and uplands. The country’s highest peak is Paektu Mountain, which stands at 2,750 meters (9,022 feet) and is located on the border with China. North Korea also has several major rivers, including the Yalu (Amnok) River, which forms its border with China, and the Tumen River, which forms part of its border with Russia.

The country has a temperate climate, with distinct four seasons. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are cold and dry, with heavy snowfall in the northern and eastern regions. The majority of North Korea’s population lives in urban areas, with the capital city of Pyongyang being the largest and most populous city.

North Korea is also home to several notable natural and cultural landmarks, including the Kumgangsan and Myohyangsan mountain ranges, the famous Ullim Falls, and the ancient Koguryo tombs. The country’s national parks, such as the Paektusan and Kumgangsan National Parks, are also popular tourist destinations. However, due to the country’s isolation and restrictive policies, tourism is relatively limited.

TRANSPORT

North Korea has a limited transportation infrastructure, with the majority of the transportation system being state-owned and operated. The country has a total of 25,554 kilometers of roads, but only a small percentage of these roads are paved. The railway network, operated by the state-owned Korean State Railway, consists of about 6,000 kilometers of track, connecting major cities and industrial centers. The railway system is considered an important part of North Korea’s transportation infrastructure and is used to transport both passengers and goods.

North Korea has several ports, with the major ones being Nampo, Chongjin, and Wonsan. The country’s primary international airport is the Pyongyang International Airport, which serves as the gateway to the country for foreign visitors. There are also several domestic airports that serve other parts of the country, such as the Samjiyon Airport in the northern part of the country.

Due to international sanctions and limited resources, North Korea’s transportation system has faced many challenges. The country has been unable to invest in modernizing and expanding its transportation infrastructure, leading to frequent power outages, train delays, and poor road conditions. Additionally, travel within the country is heavily restricted, with foreigners needing special permits to travel to certain parts of the country.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

North Korea’s economy is largely dominated by the state, and the government exerts significant control over most industries. The country’s primary industries include mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Mining is a major industry in North Korea, with the country possessing large reserves of coal, iron ore, magnesite, zinc, copper, limestone, molybdenum, graphite, and other minerals. These resources have been heavily exploited for both domestic use and export, particularly to China. The mining sector employs a significant portion of the North Korean workforce and generates a significant portion of the country’s export earnings.

Agriculture is also an important industry in North Korea, with over 20% of the population employed in the sector. The government has placed a significant emphasis on agricultural self-sufficiency and has implemented policies aimed at increasing crop yields and improving farming practices. However, the sector has been plagued by inefficiencies and poor infrastructure, which have led to frequent food shortages and famines.

Manufacturing is concentrated in a few key industries, including textiles, machinery, chemicals, and metallurgy. The government has prioritized these industries in an effort to promote self-sufficiency and exports, but they have also suffered from a lack of investment and modernization. The country’s manufacturing sector is heavily reliant on inputs from other countries, particularly China, and faces significant challenges in terms of energy shortages and outdated technology.

In recent years, North Korea has made some efforts to attract foreign investment and develop its industrial sector. The government has designated several special economic zones where foreign companies are allowed to operate, and has implemented policies aimed at improving infrastructure and streamlining bureaucratic processes. However, these efforts have been limited by ongoing international sanctions and the country’s overall economic isolation.

DEMOGRAPHICS

North Korea has an estimated population of around 25 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in East Asia. The population is primarily composed of ethnic Koreans, with small minority groups of Chinese, Japanese, and others.

The population is heavily concentrated in urban areas, with around 60% of the population residing in urban centers. The capital city of Pyongyang is the largest city in the country, with a population of over 3 million people.

North Korea has a relatively homogeneous society in terms of language and culture, with the Korean language being the official language of the country. The majority of the population follows Juche ideology, which emphasizes self-reliance and independence from foreign influences.

In terms of religion, North Korea is officially an atheist state and the government discourages religious practice. However, some sources suggest that there are small underground Christian and Buddhist communities.

The population of North Korea has been affected by food shortages and famine in the past, with malnutrition being a persistent problem. Access to healthcare is also limited, with a shortage of medical supplies and facilities. The average life expectancy in North Korea is estimated to be around 72 years.

North Korea has a relatively low fertility rate, with an average of 1.9 children born to each woman. The government strictly controls family planning and there are reports of forced abortions and sterilizations.

EDUCATION

Education in North Korea is highly prioritized and is considered a key element of the country’s development. The government emphasizes the importance of education in building a strong socialist society and provides free education at all levels.

Primary education is compulsory and lasts for five years, followed by six years of secondary education. The academic year is divided into two semesters, with the first semester starting in April and the second in September. Students attend school six days a week, from Monday to Saturday.

North Korea has a centralized education system, with the Ministry of Education overseeing all aspects of education. The curriculum emphasizes the study of Marxism-Leninism, Kim Il-sungism, and Kim Jong-ilism, as well as science, technology, and practical skills.

Higher education is also free and is offered at universities and colleges across the country. Admission to higher education is highly competitive, with entrance exams determining admission to universities and colleges.

North Korea has a literacy rate of nearly 100%, which is one of the highest in the world. The government provides textbooks, school supplies, and uniforms to all students, and teachers are highly respected in society.

Despite the emphasis on education, some critics argue that the North Korean education system is limited by its political indoctrination and lack of critical thinking skills. Additionally, the government’s focus on military training and technology education has led to a shortage of resources for other areas of study, such as humanities and social sciences.

HEALTHCARE

North Korea’s healthcare system is largely state-funded and provides free medical care to its citizens. The country has made significant progress in healthcare since the establishment of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in 1948. The government has invested heavily in building healthcare facilities and training healthcare professionals.

Primary healthcare is provided through a network of rural clinics and urban health centers, while specialized care is offered by larger hospitals in major cities. Traditional Korean medicine is also practiced alongside Western medicine.

Despite the government’s efforts, the healthcare system in North Korea still faces significant challenges. There are shortages of medical supplies and equipment, as well as a lack of funding for maintenance and upgrades. The country also struggles with a shortage of trained medical professionals, with many doctors and nurses leaving the country in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

North Korea also faces public health challenges such as malnutrition and a high incidence of communicable diseases like tuberculosis. In recent years, the country has made efforts to address these issues, including implementing vaccination campaigns and improving access to food and clean water.

Overall, while North Korea’s healthcare system has come a long way since its inception, there is still room for improvement and investment to meet the needs of its population.

CULTURE

North Korean culture is heavily influenced by the ideology of the country’s ruling party, the Workers’ Party of Korea. The official ideology, Juche, emphasizes self-reliance, independence, and devotion to the nation and its leader. The government has placed great emphasis on promoting Korean culture, both domestically and abroad.

One of the most visible cultural expressions in North Korea is the performing arts. The country has a rich tradition of music, dance, and theater. The government sponsors several state-run ensembles, such as the Mansudae Art Troupe and the Moranbong Band, which perform regularly at official events and on television. Many of these performances feature themes related to the country’s history and ideology.

North Korea is also known for its visual arts, particularly its propaganda posters. These colorful and striking images feature slogans and symbols promoting the government’s ideology and policies. They can be found throughout the country, in public spaces and in private homes.

In recent years, North Korea has also made efforts to promote its traditional Korean cuisine. Pyongyang, the capital city, has several restaurants that specialize in traditional dishes such as kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap. The country’s national dish is naengmyeon, a cold noodle soup.

Sports are also an important part of North Korean culture. The government places great emphasis on developing sports programs and has invested heavily in facilities for athletes. North Korea has competed in every Summer Olympics since 1972, and has won medals in several sports, including weightlifting, wrestling, and gymnastics.

Overall, North Korean culture is deeply intertwined with the country’s political ideology and history. While the government exerts significant control over cultural expression, there are still many aspects of North Korean culture that are enjoyed and celebrated by its people.

NATURAL RESOURCES

North Korea has a diverse range of natural resources, including minerals, forests, arable land, and hydropower potential.

Minerals: North Korea is believed to have significant reserves of various minerals, including coal, iron ore, gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, tungsten, magnesite, graphite, and rare earth metals. These resources have traditionally been a major source of income for the country through exports to China, Russia, and other countries.

Forests: Forests cover approximately 70% of North Korea’s land area, making it one of the most heavily forested countries in the world. The country’s forests are a valuable resource for the production of timber, fuel, and paper products.

Arable land: Approximately 20% of North Korea’s land is arable, and agriculture has traditionally been an important sector of the economy. The country’s primary crops include rice, corn, soybeans, and potatoes. However, North Korea has faced significant challenges in recent years due to natural disasters, soil erosion, and a lack of modern farming techniques.

Hydropower potential: North Korea has significant hydropower potential, with many rivers and streams flowing through mountainous terrain. The country has built several large hydroelectric dams, including the Sup’ung and Taechon dams, which generate a significant amount of electricity for the country.

Overall, North Korea’s natural resources have the potential to be a significant source of economic growth and development. However, the country faces significant challenges in terms of infrastructure, technology, and political isolation, which have hindered its ability to fully exploit these resources.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

North Korea faces several environmental issues due to industrialization, deforestation, and inadequate waste management. The country has been largely focused on developing its economy and military, often neglecting environmental concerns.

One major issue is air pollution, which is caused by the burning of coal for energy and industrial production. This has led to respiratory problems and other health issues for the population, particularly in urban areas.

Water pollution is also a problem, with untreated sewage and industrial waste being discharged into rivers and coastal areas. This has impacted the fishing industry and the availability of clean water for drinking and agriculture.

Deforestation is another issue, with large areas of forest being cleared for agricultural purposes and fuel. This has led to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.

North Korea is also prone to natural disasters such as flooding, landslides, and droughts, which have been exacerbated by climate change. These events can cause significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture, leading to food shortages and displacement of people.

Overall, North Korea’s environmental issues are complex and intertwined with its economic and political systems. Addressing these challenges will require a coordinated effort and a focus on sustainable development.

HUMAN RIGHTS

North Korea has been widely criticized for its poor human rights record. The country has been accused of numerous violations, including forced labor, torture, execution, lack of freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, as well as gender-based violence and discrimination. The government has been accused of maintaining a system of political prison camps where inmates are subjected to forced labor, torture, and execution.

Freedom of expression is severely restricted in North Korea, with media and the internet being tightly controlled by the government. Citizens are not allowed to access foreign media, and only a limited number of state-approved news outlets are available. Religion is also tightly controlled, with only a few state-sanctioned religious organizations being permitted to operate.

North Korea has also been accused of using public executions as a means of controlling the population, and of imposing collective punishment on families of those accused of crimes. The country has been accused of using forced labor, particularly in prison camps, and of child labor in certain industries.

International human rights organizations have criticized North Korea’s human rights record, and the United Nations has established a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the issue. However, North Korea has consistently denied the allegations of human rights abuses, and has refused to cooperate with the international community on this issue.

FOODS

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

North Korea has a limited tourism industry, and travel to the country is highly regulated by the government. However, there are a number of attractions that tourists can visit while in North Korea. Here are some travel destinations in North Korea:

• The capital city of Pyongyang, which features several monuments, museums, and other cultural attractions.
• The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North Korea and South Korea, which is a heavily guarded area with limited access.
• Mount Kumgang, a mountain resort on the east coast that is a popular destination for South Korean tourists.
• The city of Kaesong, which is known for its historic architecture and traditional Korean cuisine.
• The Ryongmun Caverns, a network of limestone caves located in the northeast of the country.
• The city of Chongjin, which is North Korea’s third-largest city and has several museums and cultural sites.
• The Masikryong Ski Resort, a modern ski resort located on the east coast.
• The International Friendship Exhibition, a museum that houses gifts given to North Korean leaders from foreign dignitaries.
• The Tomb of King Tongmyong, an ancient burial site in the city of Pyongyang.
• The Juche Tower, a monument in Pyongyang that symbolizes North Korea’s self-reliance ideology.
• The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, a mausoleum that houses the embalmed bodies of former North Korean leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il.
• The Ryugyong Hotel, a 105-story pyramid-shaped hotel in Pyongyang that has been under construction since 1987.
• The Mangyongdae Native House, the birthplace of Kim Il-sung and now a museum.
• The Kaeson Youth Park, an amusement park in Pyongyang.
• The Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery, a cemetery in Pyongyang that honors North Korean soldiers and leaders.
• The Yangdok Hot Springs Resort, a luxury spa resort located in a scenic area in the central part of the country.
• The Paektu Mountain, a sacred site and the highest peak in North Korea.
• The Sinuiju Special Economic Zone, a relatively new development area near the border with China.
• The Chilbosan Mountain, a scenic mountain range in the northeast of the country.
• The Songdowon International Children’s Camp, a summer camp located on the east coast that is open to foreign children.

CELEBRITIES

Since North Korea is a reclusive country, information about its celebrities may be limited. However, here are some notable figures:

• Kim Jong-un – the current supreme leader of North Korea, following the death of his father, Kim Jong-il, in 2011.
• Ri Sol-ju – the wife of Kim Jong-un, whom he married in 2009. She has appeared in public alongside her husband on several occasions.
• Kim Yo-jong – the younger sister of Kim Jong-un, who holds a high-ranking position in the North Korean government.
• Choe Ryong-hae – a senior official in the Workers’ Party of Korea, who has served in various leadership positions.
• Kim Yong-nam – the former president of the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly, who held the position for over two decades.
• Ri Chun-hee – a news anchor for the North Korean state media, who is known for her theatrical delivery and emotional reporting.
• Hong Myung-bo – a former football player, who captained the South Korean national team in the 2002 World Cup. He later served as the head coach of the North Korean national team.
• An Hyo-ri – a former table tennis player, who won several international competitions in the 1990s.
• Ri Myung-hun – a former boxer, who won a gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.
• Hyon Song-wol – a singer and musician, who is the leader of the all-female Moranbong Band.
• Kim Kwang-hyok – a professional basketball player, who has played for the North Korean national team.
• Pak Se-ri – a former professional golfer, who won several major championships in the 1990s.
• Kim Song-guk – a weightlifter, who won a gold medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
• Pak Doo-ik – a former football player, who scored the winning goal for North Korea in their famous upset victory over Italy in the 1966 World Cup.
• Jo Tong-sop – a former wrestler, who won a gold medal at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona.
• Ri Kwang-hyok – a professional football player, who has played for various clubs in North Korea and China.
• Kim Yong-guk – a former table tennis player, who won a gold medal at the 1991 World Table Tennis Championships.
• Kim Il – a former film director and producer, who directed several propaganda films in North Korea.
• Ri Pyong-chol – a military official, who is known for his close relationship with Kim Jong-un.
• Kang Hyok – a former figure skater, who competed in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin.

NEWSPAPERS

North Korea has a state-controlled media, and all newspapers are operated by the government. The most important newspapers in North Korea are:

• Rodong Sinmun: It is the official newspaper of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, and the most widely read newspaper in the country. It covers political, economic, and social news, as well as international news from a North Korean perspective.
• Minju Choson: It is the newspaper of the Cabinet of North Korea and covers a wide range of topics such as politics, economy, culture, and sports.
• Joson Inmingun: It is the newspaper of the Korean People’s Army, and focuses on military news and propaganda.
• Chongnyon Jonwi: It is the newspaper of the Kim Il-sung Socialist Youth League, and focuses on news and events relevant to the North Korean youth.
• Nongno: It is the agricultural newspaper of North Korea, and focuses on agricultural news and development.

All of these newspapers are printed in Korean, and there is no independent press in the country.

TV CHANNELS

North Korea has several state-run TV channels, including:

• Korean Central Television (KCTV) – the main state-run TV channel, which broadcasts news, documentaries, and propaganda in Korean and English.
• Korean Central Broadcasting Committee (KCBC) – the state-run radio network, which broadcasts news, music, and propaganda in Korean and other languages.
• Mansudae Television – a propaganda channel that broadcasts news, documentaries, and other programs in Korean and English.
• Ryongnamsan Television – a channel that broadcasts propaganda in Korean and English.
• Voice of Korea (VOK) – the state-run international broadcasting service, which broadcasts news, music, and propaganda in several languages, including English.

It is important to note that the content broadcasted on these TV channels is heavily controlled and censored by the North Korean government, and often serves as a tool for the regime to promote their ideology and control information available to the North Korean people.

RADIO

North Korea has several state-owned radio stations, which include:

• Korean Central Broadcasting Station – the state-run radio station that broadcasts news, music, and propaganda in Korean, English, and other languages.
• Voice of Korea – the international radio station of North Korea that broadcasts in various languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish.
• Pyongyang Broadcasting Station – the city’s radio station that broadcasts news, weather, and entertainment programs in Korean.
• Kanggye Broadcasting Station – the regional radio station that broadcasts programs in Korean and local dialects.

The North Korean government strictly controls all radio broadcasts, and citizens are not allowed to listen to foreign radio stations. The content of radio programs is heavily censored and focuses primarily on promoting the regime’s ideology and propaganda.

FACTS

Here are some facts about North Korea.

• North Korea was established in 1948 after World War II.
• Its official name is the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).
• The capital city of North Korea is Pyongyang.
• The Korean War from 1950 to 1953 divided the Korean Peninsula into North and South Korea.
• North Korea is bordered by China to the north, Russia to the northeast, and South Korea to the south.
• North Korea has a population of around 25 million people.
• The official language of North Korea is Korean.
• North Korea operates under a socialist system with a single-party government.
• The ruling party in North Korea is the Workers’ Party of Korea.
• The Supreme Leader of North Korea is Kim Jong-un, who has been in power since 2011.
• North Korea is one of the most isolated countries in the world.
• North Korea has a state-controlled media that only broadcasts government-approved information.
• North Korea’s military is one of the largest in the world, with an estimated 1.2 million active soldiers.
• North Korea has conducted several nuclear tests and missile launches, which have caused tension with other countries.
• North Korea has a heavily centralized economy with limited international trade.
• Agriculture is the largest sector in North Korea, with rice and corn being the most common crops.
• North Korea has significant reserves of coal, iron ore, and other minerals.
• North Korea has a highly secretive culture, with limited access to the internet and outside information.
• The Juche ideology, which emphasizes self-reliance, is a guiding principle in North Korea’s political philosophy.
• North Korea has a system of prison camps that are known for human rights abuses.
• The official religion of North Korea is atheism.
• North Korea has a national airline, Air Koryo, which has been ranked as the worst airline in the world.
• North Korea has a unique time zone, which is 30 minutes ahead of neighboring South Korea and Japan.
• The most popular sport in North Korea is soccer.
• The national dish of North Korea is kimchi, a spicy fermented vegetable dish.
• North Korea has a number of national holidays, including Kim Il-sung’s birthday, which is celebrated as the Day of the Sun.
• The Arirang Festival, a mass gymnastics and artistic performance, is held in Pyongyang every year.
• North Korea has a number of natural wonders, including Mount Paektu, a sacred mountain that is also an active volcano.
• The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea is one of the most heavily fortified borders in the world.
• North Korea has been subject to international sanctions due to its nuclear and missile programs.