The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, or North Korea as it’s more commonly known, is a nation shrouded in secrecy. But beyond the headlines about missiles and nuclear tests, there’s a fascinating (and sometimes bizarre) culture and society. So, buckle up and delve into ten crazy or interesting facts about North Korea:
- Kim Dynasty: North Korea is the world’s only hereditary dictatorship. Three generations of the Kim family – Il-sung, Jong-il, and Jong-un – have ruled the country since its founding in 1948.
- Supreme Leader Birthday Bonanza: The birthdays of the Kims are treated like national holidays. Celebrations include mass festivities, gift-giving, and even special foods.
- Unified Time Zone, Divided Country: Despite being on the Korean Peninsula with South Korea, the North has its own time zone – Pyongyang Time – which is 30 minutes ahead.
- Gaming Paradise (Sort Of): Believe it or not, North Korea has a thriving video game industry, often creating games with patriotic themes. However, access to and the types of games available are strictly controlled.
- Pyongyang: City of Lights (Literally): Due to power shortages, much of North Korea experiences nightly blackouts. However, the capital, Pyongyang, is kept brightly lit at night to showcase its prosperity (or at least the illusion of it).
- Fashion Forward (State Sanctioned): North Korea has strict fashion guidelines. Hairstyles are dictated, with certain cuts reserved for specific social classes or marital status. Jeans are generally frowned upon.
- Propaganda Powerhouse: North Korea is a master of propaganda. Giant monuments to the Kims and state-controlled media dominate everyday life.
- Tourism with a Twist: A very limited form of tourism exists in North Korea. Visitors are tightly controlled and shown a curated version of the country. Spontaneous exploration is not allowed.
- Kim Jong-un’s Accolades (According to North Korea): North Korean state media portrays Kim Jong-un as a genius with superhuman abilities. These include claims of him being able to control the weather and compose operas as a child.
- A Different Internet: North Korea has its own closed-off internet, called Kwangmyong. Access is limited to a select few, and it offers a heavily filtered view of the web.
North Korea is a complex and contradictory nation. These ten facts offer a glimpse into the unique and sometimes strange realities of life in the DPRK.
