Things to do in North Korea

Walk through the vast halls of the mausoleum where the embalmed bodies of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il lie in state, an intense ritual of reverence for the leaders.

Admire the 170-meter granite obelisk symbolizing the Juche ideology; ride the elevator to the top for panoramic views over Pyongyang.

Visit the iconic blue UN conference rooms straddling the border, stand on the concrete slab dividing North from South, and feel the tension of the Korean War's unfinished end.

Descend deep underground via one of the world’s longest escalators to admire ornate station mosaics and chandeliers, used as a bomb shelter during wartime.

Be awed by 100,000 synchronized performers creating giant human mosaics and acrobatic dance in a colossal spectacle of national pride.

Explore palatial galleries carved into the mountain displaying thousands of lavish gifts given to the leaders, a surreal museum of global diplomacy.

Walk through diorama halls depicting the Korean War from the North's perspective, then tour the captured USS Pueblo spy ship moored nearby.

Traverse the bridge where prisoner exchanges occurred after the Korean War, its name a stark reminder of the division's permanence.

Present flowers and bow before the towering bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, the essential ritual for visitors.

Stroll the serene 14th-century royal tomb site near Kaesong, where twin granite burial mounds rest under grass and pine trees.

Taste fresh North Korean beer straight from the source at a brewery bar, accompanied by local snacks, in a rare lively evening atmosphere.

Pass under the majestic arch, slightly larger than its Parisian counterpart, celebrating Korea's liberation from Japanese rule.

Tour the prestigious campus grounds where students study, often with English-speaking guides, offering insights into the elite education system.

Climb aboard the captured American spy ship docked on the Taedong River, now a museum with intact equipment and anti-US exhibits.

Join locals at this lush hilltop park where families picnic and couples dance, providing a rare glimpse of everyday leisure.

Trek through the 'Seven Treasures' mountain range, with dramatic sea cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient stone pagodas along the coast.

Climb to the crater lake of this sacred volcano, the mythological birthplace of the Korean people, where the first light creates a mystical scene.

Hike among jagged granite peaks, waterfalls, and Buddhist temples in the scenic resort area once open to South Korean tourists.

Visit the humble thatched-roof house where Kim Il-sung was born, now a pristine pilgrimage site surrounded by a park.

Enter the towering neo-classical library with millions of books, watching students and scientists work under the vast central hall.

A somber site detailing alleged wartime massacres with graphic exhibits and bomb shelters, it's an unflinching propaganda memorial.

Feel the sand and sea breeze at this developing coastal city's beach, where locals play volleyball and you can try fresh seafood.

Explore the well-preserved historic district with traditional Korean hanok houses, narrow lanes, and the ancient Namdaemun gate.

Step into a mock ancient Korean village with thatched cottages, blacksmith shops, and traditional performances, designed to showcase folk heritage.

Visit this active Buddhist temple from the 11th century, nestled in Mt. Myohyang, with ornate halls and a giant bell struck at dawn.