Facts About North Korea (Interesting & Fun)

North Korea, a country shrouded in secrecy, captivates the world with its unique culture and enigmatic ways. Beyond the headlines, there are numerous interesting and fun facts that provide a glimpse into the lesser-known aspects of this fascinating nation.

In this article, we will uncover some of the surprising facets of North Korea, from its natural beauty to its rollerblading culture. Whether you’re a curious traveler or simply intrigued by different cultures, these facts will offer you a fresh perspective on North Korea.

Key Takeaways:

• North Korea boasts breathtaking natural beauty, from picturesque beaches to majestic mountains.
• Power cuts are a common problem in North Korea due to outdated infrastructure.
• The country has embraced rollerblading as a popular sport, with dedicated parks for enthusiasts.
• North Korea owes a significant debt to Sweden from trade deals in the past.
• The country has opened up to tourism, allowing more westerners to visit and shed light on its inner workings.

Natural Beauty of North Korea

Despite its reputation for brutalist architecture and an oppressive state, North Korea is home to breathtaking natural beauty. From picturesque beaches to stunning mountainscapes, the country’s diverse landscapes offer a glimpse into its hidden wonders.

Beaches in North Korea

The Pacific coast of North Korea is adorned with pristine beaches, featuring golden sands and crystal-clear waters. These secluded stretches of paradise are often overlooked, making them perfect for those seeking a tranquil seaside retreat. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or take a refreshing dip in the ocean, North Korean beaches offer a serene escape.

Mount Myohyang: A Natural Wonder

One of the most majestic destinations in North Korea is Mount Myohyang. This sacred mountain is renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty, boasting lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking hiking trails. As you venture through the verdant landscapes, you’ll encounter rare flora and fauna, providing a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts.

Exploring North Korean Nature

While North Korea may be known for its urban landscapes, venturing into the country’s natural wonders reveals a different side. From the serene beaches to the majestic mountains, nature enthusiasts have plenty to explore and discover. Whether you choose to relax on the sandy shores or embark on a hiking adventure, North Korean nature promises unforgettable experiences amidst its captivating landscapes.

Power Cuts in North Korea

Power cuts are a common problem in North Korea, primarily due to its outdated and deteriorating electrical infrastructure. The country’s power supply is irregular, causing frequent disruptions in daily life. In an effort to address this issue, North Korea is actively working on transitioning to renewable energy sources.

The inadequate power infrastructure not only affects residential areas but also has an impact on businesses, hospitals, and other essential services. As a result, the government has implemented measures to manage the limited power supply, such as implementing scheduled power cuts during specific periods of the day.

With power cuts being a regular occurrence, North Koreans have learned to adapt to the situation. This includes rationing electricity usage for certain electronics and appliances. For example, some households may only be allowed to use power for a limited number of hours each day, leading to careful planning and prioritization of necessary tasks.

Despite these challenges, North Korea is actively striving to improve its power infrastructure and reduce its reliance on traditional energy sources. The country has been exploring renewable energy options, including solar and wind power, as part of its efforts to increase the reliability and availability of electricity.

Rollerblading Culture in North Korea

While rollerblading may have lost its popularity in many countries, it remains a beloved activity in North Korea. Introduced on a large scale by Kim Jong Un in 2011, rollerblading has since become ingrained in the country’s culture. To cater to this unique phenomenon, North Korea has established rollerblading parks that offer enthusiasts a dedicated space to showcase their skills and enjoy the sport.

The rollerblading parks in North Korea are designed to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for participants of all ages. These well-maintained facilities feature smooth surfaces, ramps, and obstacles, allowing rollerbladers to showcase their talent and engage in friendly competitions. The parks also serve as social hubs where rollerblading enthusiasts can connect and bond over their shared passion.

The Benefits of Rollerblading

• Improves cardiovascular fitness and strengthens muscles
• Enhances balance, coordination, and agility
• Provides a low-impact aerobic exercise
• Promotes mental well-being and stress relief
• Boosts social interaction and community engagement

Rollerblading in North Korea offers a unique insight into the country’s embrace of unconventional trends and the importance of recreational activities in its culture. It demonstrates that even in a country often associated with tension and secrecy, people find joy in sports and leisure pursuits.

“Rollerblading is not just a recreational activity in North Korea; it is a symbol of cultural vitality and an expression of individual freedom.”

North Korea’s Debts to Sweden

In the 1970s, North Korea engaged in trade deals with Sweden, which included the purchase of 1,000 brand new Volvo sedans. However, over the years, North Korea failed to repay the debts incurred from these trade agreements. As a result, the Swedish government continues to recalculate the amount owed, adding interest each year.

This unresolved debt is a testament to the complex economic relationships that North Korea has with other countries. The failure to honor financial obligations highlights the challenges faced by North Korea in maintaining stable trade partnerships and meeting its international financial commitments.

“The debt owed by North Korea to Sweden serves as a reminder of the intricacies involved in global trade and the impact it can have on bilateral relations. It underscores the importance of upholding financial responsibilities to foster trust and stability in international economic dealings.”

To better understand the magnitude of North Korea’s debts to Sweden, the following table provides an overview of the trade deals and the current estimated amount owed:

Despite attempts to establish fruitful trade relations, North Korea’s failure to repay debts to Sweden serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by both nations. It highlights the intricate nature of international trade and the impact of economic decisions on diplomatic ties between countries.

Opening Up to Tourism

North Korea has recently taken steps to open its doors to tourism, allowing more westerners to visit and document their experiences in this enigmatic country. While tourists are presented with a curated version of North Korea, this increasing access provides valuable insights into the inner workings of the nation.

Visiting North Korea as a tourist offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the culture, traditions, and way of life in this secluded country. Western visitors have the chance to explore historical sites, interact with locals, and gain a better understanding of the North Korean perspective.

However, it is important to approach the information provided by tourists with caution, as their experiences may not always accurately represent the entire country. Keep in mind that tourists are typically shown the highlights, and their access to certain areas may be restricted or monitored.

Tourism in North Korea offers a glimpse into a world that is often shrouded in mystery. While it is not without its limitations, it provides a unique perspective on the country’s culture and way of life.”

Despite the curated nature of tourism in North Korea, it can still offer insights into the country’s history, politics, and daily life. Exploring landmarks such as the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, Juche Tower, and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) can shed light on the nation’s past and present.

Additionally, interactions with local guides and residents can provide opportunities for cultural exchange and a deeper appreciation of North Korean society. These encounters allow visitors to challenge preconceived notions and foster a more nuanced understanding of the country.

The Ryugyong Hotel

The Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, North Korea, is an iconic and enigmatic structure that dominates the city’s skyline. Standing at an impressive height of 1,079 feet, it holds the distinction of being the tallest unoccupied building in the world.

Construction on the Ryugyong Hotel began in 1987 with the aim of creating a luxurious hotel that would showcase North Korean prowess and modernity. However, ongoing economic difficulties in the country led to repeated halts in construction, leaving the hotel incomplete and abandoned.

Despite its unfinished state, the Ryugyong Hotel has become an intriguing symbol of North Korea’s ambitious architectural projects. Its unique triangular shape and towering presence have captured the attention of visitors and observers around the world.

The Grandeur Within

Although the interior of the Ryugyong Hotel remains largely unknown to the public, its ambition was to house five revolving restaurants, multiple hotel rooms, and other luxurious amenities. The hotel’s sheer size and design were intended to convey opulence and international prestige.

“The Ryugyong Hotel’s imposing presence raises questions about the country’s priorities and highlights the contrast between grand ambitions and economic realities.”

Nevertheless, the saga of the Ryugyong Hotel represents more than just a grand architectural endeavor. It serves as a reminder of the economic challenges and complexity of North Korea, showcasing the stark contrast between the country’s aspirations and its ability to bring projects to fruition.

The Unfinished Legacy

While the Ryugyong Hotel remains incomplete and unoccupied, it continues to captivate the imagination of locals and tourists alike. Visitors to Pyongyang can catch glimpses of this colossal structure, standing as a testament to North Korea’s ambition and architectural prowess.

However, the future of the Ryugyong Hotel remains uncertain. There have been recent reports of limited operations and continued efforts to get the hotel fully functional. Whether it will ever achieve its original intended purpose or remain an incomplete monument to ambition is a question that only time can answer.

Haircut Regulations in North Korea

In North Korea, the government exercises strict control over personal appearance, including hairstyles. Both men and women have limited options when it comes to their hair. The North Korean government has a list of government-approved hairstyles that citizens must choose from. Deviating from these approved styles can result in arrest and punishment.

One notable regulation is that unmarried women are required to keep their hair short. This enforcement of short hair for unmarried women is believed to be rooted in traditional values and the desire to promote conformity and modesty.

This level of control over individual expression extends beyond just hairstyles. The North Korean government places great importance on appearance and conformity to reinforce its ideology and maintain social order.

Government-Approved Hairstyles in North Korea

These are just a few examples of the government-approved hairstyles in North Korea. The options are limited, and citizens must comply with these regulations to avoid confrontation with authorities.

Despite the strict regulations, it is important to note that not all North Koreans comply with the mandated styles. Some individuals, particularly those residing in more remote areas, may adopt alternative hairstyles in a display of personal expression or as an act of subtle defiance.

These haircut regulations provide a unique insight into the level of control exerted by the North Korean government over its citizens’ lives, right down to their hairstyles.

North Korea’s Unique Calendar

In a world where the Gregorian calendar is widely accepted and used, North Korea stands apart with its own distinctive calendar system called the Juche calendar. This calendar holds immense cultural significance in North Korean society as it reflects the country’s ideology of Juche, which emphasizes self-reliance and independence.

The Juche calendar starts from April 15, 1912, which marks the birthdate of Kim Il-sung, the founding president of North Korea. This date is considered the beginning of the Juche era, symbolizing the start of North Korea’s quest for self-determination.

Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which follows a solar-based system with a fixed number of days in each month, the Juche calendar follows a unique structure. It divides the year into eras, months, and days based on important events and historical milestones in North Korean history.

While the Juche calendar is primarily used for official purposes, including government documents and public events, the Gregorian calendar is also acknowledged and used in some contexts, especially in international interactions.

By maintaining its own calendar system, North Korea highlights its distinctive identity and ideological framework. This calendar serves as a reminder of the country’s history and the ongoing pursuit of its national objectives.

“The Juche calendar reflects our commitment to self-reliance and independence, which are the guiding principles that shape our nation.” – Kim Jong-un, Supreme Leader of North Korea

Comparison of the Juche Calendar and the Gregorian Calendar

Despite its uniqueness, it’s important to note that the Juche calendar primarily holds significance within North Korea and has limited recognition outside the country. Visitors to North Korea should be aware of the calendar differences to avoid any potential confusion during their stay.

Conclusion

North Korea is a country that continues to fascinate and intrigue people around the world. Despite its reputation for secrecy and oppressive regimes, there are many interesting and fun facts about the country that shed light on its culture, history, and unique characteristics. Exploring North Korea’s natural beauty, rollerblading culture, and economic complexities provides a more nuanced understanding of this enigmatic nation.

From its stunning natural landscapes, such as the picturesque beaches and mountainscapes, to the rollerblading parks that showcase the country’s embrace of unconventional trends, North Korea offers a diverse range of experiences. Beyond these leisurely pursuits, the country’s economic relationships with other nations, such as its unresolved debts to Sweden, highlight its complex position within the global community.

While North Korea’s unique calendar system and strict regulations on personal appearance may seem unusual to many, they reflect the country’s ideology and emphasis on self-reliance. Understanding these cultural nuances allows for a deeper appreciation of North Korea’s distinct identity.

In conclusion, North Korea offers a multifaceted view that goes beyond its misconceptions and headlines. While it is important to approach the information provided by tourists with caution, exploring the country’s natural beauty, cultural phenomena, and economic complexities contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of this fascinating nation.