North Korea is a mysterious country that remains largely unknown to the rest of the world. Due to its isolationist policies and reclusive leadership, the country has become a source of fascination for many people. Here are some strange facts about North Korea that may surprise you.
The Eternal President
North Korea’s first leader, Kim Il-sung, is still officially the country’s president, despite his death in 1994. He is known as the “Eternal President” and is revered by the North Korean people as a god-like figure. His son, Kim Jong-il, who died in 2011, was known as the “Dear Leader” and was succeeded by his own son, Kim Jong-un, who is currently the leader of North Korea.
Pyongyang’s Size
The capital city of North Korea, Pyongyang, is massive, covering an area of 2,850 square kilometers. This makes it larger than London, Paris, or New York City. However, despite its size, the city has a relatively low population density, with only 3 million inhabitants.
No Traffic Lights
Pyongyang has very few traffic lights, and those that do exist are often turned off due to power shortages. Instead, traffic is controlled by traffic police who use hand signals to direct vehicles. This makes for a chaotic and often dangerous driving experience.
The Year Is Not 2023
In North Korea, the year is not 2023 as it is in most other parts of the world. Instead, it is the year 111, as the country uses a calendar system based on the birth of its founder, Kim Il-sung. This means that every year in North Korea is the same as the number of years that have passed since Kim Il-sung was born.
Haircuts
North Koreans have a limited choice when it comes to hairstyles. Men are required to have their hair cut short and are not allowed to have any facial hair. Women are allowed to have longer hair, but they must choose from a list of state-approved styles. There are 28 government-approved hairstyles for women and 10 for men.
No Internet
Access to the internet is severely restricted in North Korea. Only a small number of people have access to a heavily censored and tightly controlled intranet known as “Kwangmyong.” Most North Koreans have never used the internet or even heard of it.
No Loudspeakers
North Korea is known for its propaganda, and one of the ways it spreads its message is through loudspeakers. These speakers are placed throughout the country and play patriotic songs and messages from the government. They are so loud that they can be heard from miles away.
No Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is not sold in North Korea, and it is illegal to import it. This is due to the country’s long-standing hostility towards the United States, which is the home of Coca-Cola.
Pyongyang Metro
Pyongyang has a metro system, but it is not like any other metro system in the world. The stations are adorned with chandeliers, mosaics, and statues of the country’s leaders. The trains themselves are old and rickety, but they are a source of pride for the North Korean government.
No GPS
GPS technology is not available in North Korea, and it is illegal for foreigners to bring GPS devices into the country. This is because the government fears that GPS technology could be used to spy on the country.
Conclusion
North Korea is a country that is full of strange and often baffling facts. From the Eternal President to the lack of internet access, it is a place that seems to exist in a different world. Despite its isolation, the country continues to fascinate people around the world, and its peculiarities are likely to remain a subject of