Private guide in Pyongyang, guided tours in Pyongyang, Korea North

Pyongyang
Korea North

Information about Pyongyang

Why is Pyongyang considered a unique tourist destination in North Korea?

Pyongyang, the capital of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a rare example of a city where modern urban architecture blends with ideological symbolism and strict social discipline. This city rarely opens to tourists, making it especially appealing to those seeking to experience a part of the world shrouded in mystery and tightly controlled by the state. Pyongyang is not just a capital—it's a symbol of national pride, where every monument, square, and park tells a story about the country’s achievements and its leaders. Visitors coming here have a unique opportunity to touch a special culture in which traditions, propaganda, and collectivism are intricately intertwined.

The city primarily attracts enthusiasts of political history, 20th-century architecture, and those curious about life in a closed society. Many of Pyongyang's attractions are designed to showcase the power of the state and the greatness of its leaders. There is no typical tourist entertainment here, but there is an authentic, albeit strictly controlled, reality. Visiting Pyongyang is not just a trip—it's an immersion into an alternative world where every step is regulated, and perception depends on the traveler’s willingness to see things from a different perspective.

What are the main attractions to visit in Pyongyang?

• Kim Il Sung Square — the central square of the city, used for parades and mass events.
• Taean Monument — a large statue dedicated to the founder of the Joseon dynasty.
• Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il Mausoleum — a sacred site housing the preserved bodies of North Korea’s founding leader and his son.
• Arch of Triumph — one of the tallest in the world, built to commemorate Kim Il Sung’s return after World War II.
• Ryongnamsan TV Tower — a structure resembling the Eiffel Tower, featuring an observation deck and a revolving restaurant.
• Mansu Hill Park — a park with large granite statues of independence fighters.
• Museum of Korean History — a grand exhibition focused on resistance against Japanese colonizers and the development of the DPRK.
• Rungrado 1st of May Stadium — one of the largest stadiums globally, hosting mass gymnastic performances.
• University of Foreign Languages — an educational institution involved in limited international exchange.
• Donghwa Market — one of the few places where tourists can observe daily life of local residents.

Why should you choose private guides in Pyongyang?

Traveling in Pyongyang without a guide is impossible—tourists are not allowed to move independently. This is why private guides in Pyongyang are essential for navigating this closed world. They do more than just explain history and architecture; they help visitors follow strict behavioral rules, interpret local realities, and answer questions without violating protocol. A private guide in Pyongyang is not just a tour guide but a mediator between the tourist and the state. Thanks to their training, they allow for a deeper understanding of what you see, help avoid misunderstandings, and grant access to locations only open to official tour groups. Private guides in Pyongyang are specially trained and know how to present information without raising suspicion. Choosing a private guide in Pyongyang ensures a safe, informative, and memorable visit.

What are the benefits of hiring private guides in North Korea?

Tourists who choose private guides in North Korea enjoy a more flexible and personalized experience. Unlike standard group tours, private guides can tailor the itinerary to the traveler’s interests—be it architecture, military history, or everyday life. A private guide in North Korea often speaks foreign languages and may share unique observations not included in the official narrative, making the trip more meaningful and less rigid.

When is the best time to visit Pyongyang?

The best time to visit Pyongyang is during spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). The weather is mild, rainfall is minimal, and nature is at its most beautiful. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold and snowy. Additionally, major national celebrations, including military parades and mass gymnastic performances, occur in May and October, making these periods especially impressive for visitors.

What language is spoken in Pyongyang, and what food should you try?

The official language is Korean. English is understood in tourist settings but not widely spoken. Must-try local dishes include namul (seasoned vegetable side dishes), Pyongyang naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles), kimchi, and soy-based dishes. Meat is rare in local cuisine, but it is available in tourist restaurants.

What can you buy in Pyongyang, and what is prohibited to take out?

Shopping options are limited. Souvenir shops sell coins, pins, books, postcards with images of leaders, and local cosmetics. It is strictly forbidden to export any materials that discredit the North Korean leadership or items related to the military. Photographing military installations is absolutely prohibited.

What are the dress codes and behavior rules in public places?

Clothing should be modest: long pants, covered shoulders, and no flashy slogans. Footwear must be comfortable due to extensive walking. Criticizing the government, taking photos of locals without permission, or making disrespectful gestures toward leaders are strictly forbidden in public.

How to get to Pyongyang and which airport should you fly to?

Access to Pyongyang is only possible through organized tours. Flights land at Pyongyang Sunan International Airport, where tourists are met by guides. Direct international flights are rare—most travelers arrive via Beijing or Vladivostok.

Why should you visit Pyongyang?

Pyongyang offers a rare chance to witness a world most people only read about in news reports. It’s a city of mystery where every stone carries ideological meaning, and daily life differs greatly from what we know.

5 Reasons to Visit Pyongyang

1. A unique opportunity to see a closed society from the inside.
2. Grand socialist-era architecture and monumental city planning.
3. Spectacular cultural and political events and mass performances.
4. Rare historical and memorial complexes with deep ideological significance.
5. Deep immersion into Korean culture through a unique national lens.

Our Tips for Tourists in Pyongyang

• Avoid initiating political discussions with locals.
• Photograph only permitted sites and always ask your guide for approval.
• Bring multiple cameras—your primary device may be confiscated for rule violations.
• Do not carry electronic devices with inappropriate or banned content.
• Stick strictly to the schedule—delays may be interpreted as disrespect.