The world was interested in North Korea’s way of life. But there isn’t much of what we do know about the country. We do know that it differs significantly from South Korea. It was established on 3 October 1948. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, or DPRK, is the official name of the nation. If you’re familiar with their culture and way of life, you might recognize them by their local name, Choson. Let’s explore some of the most important North Korea facts:
North Korea and South Korea used to be a single country
Following the end of World War II, the nations were split. The North was seized by the Soviets, and the South by the United States. The Soviets were ruling under a communist system, while the US was against it. This meant that the two sides were divided.
The official division of the nation into South Korea and North Korea took place on September 9, 1947. In 1950, a war broke out between them as a result of North Korean invasions of the South. The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) was then formed after it had been in place for three years. Due to the lack of a formal peace treaty, technically, both nations are still at war.
North Korea’s leaders were from the same family
Since 1948, the same family has been in charge of and ruled over North Korea. Kim Il-sung served as the group’s first Supreme Leader. He held the position until his death in 1994. Kim Jong-il took over after he passed away. He ruled for 17 years and was the son of the late supreme leader. Kim Jong-un, the son of Kim Jong-il, was chosen as the nation’s new leader in 2011. He still holds the position of greatest authority in North Korea today.
Seafood export is big in North Korea
North Korea’s primary trading partner is China. The principal products of North Korea, which make up at least 60% of its exports, are fish and seafood. It accounts for at least 25% of all goods sold abroad. Additionally, one of the biggest exporters of fishery products worldwide is North Korea.
North Korea used to have its own time zone
North Korea introduced its very own system of time on August 15, 2015. Any nation or location in the globe is at least 30 minutes apart from theirs. The time zone for Pyongyang and the rest of North Korea is GMT+08:30. Before the Japanese colonization during the 20th century, reports claim that this was the country’s time zone.
Kim Jong-un made the decision in April 2018 to move North Korea back to GMT +09:00 in line with South Korea. This effort was viewed as a step toward bringing both countries together. On May 4, 2018, this adjustment was formally put into effect.
North Korea doesn’t celebrate Christmas
Christmas isn’t a significant occasion or holiday in North Korea. However, they do have an event on December 24th, and it’s the birthday of Kim Jong-Il’s mom. Also, Valentine’s Day is not a special holiday. However, February 16 is an important day. It’s called, “The General’s Birthday”.
Tourists in North Korea cannot use their local currency
Keep your spending under control if you have any immediate plans to travel the nation. Tourists won’t be allowed to make purchases with North Korean cash. Foreigners can use South Korean Won, US Dollars, Yuan, and even Euros to make purchases in local stores.
Locals in North Korea cannot travel internationally
Except for a few North Koreans who travel to China or Russia for employment, travel on a regular basis, both domestically and outside, is truly very restricted. It is not permitted for citizens to take vacations anywhere in the world.
There are additional limitations on domestic travel. Locals must request permission from the authorities in advance if they wish to visit friends or family in another village.
