north korea top tourist attractions

North Korea Tourist Attractions

Get swept away with these best places to visit in North Korea

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North Korea is an enigmatic tourist destination that offers unfamiliar territories to explore. This majestic country boasts cultural heritage and North Korea tourist attractions , making it more fascinating to tourists. North Korea has a rich historical and cultural significance dating back thousands of years. North Korea never fails to offer a glimpse into its interesting past, from Koguryo Tombs to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun. You can even immerse yourself in traditional Korean culture by watching colorful mass performances and experiencing customs & traditions. The enriched culture of this country is one of the North Korea attractions . Besides being a secretive country, North Korea is home to unparalleled landscapes. These breathtaking landscapes allow you to make your social feed colorful and vibrant. Mount Paektu is an active volcano, which is one of the surreal North Korea tourist spots . It has the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula. It draws the attention of many travelers who loves to hike. Moreover, nature enthusiasts can also marvel at the scenic Myohyang Mountains, pristine Kumgangsan, and the beautiful Lake Chon. Nature is itself one of the stunning North Korea tourist attractions that offer travelers an opportunity to explore and admire the beauty of nature.   North Korea’s architecture is another marvelous brilliance that adds charm and grandeur to the country’s style. The highlight of North Korea’s architectural excellence is the iconic Ryugyong Hotel. This massive pyramid-shaped formation is one of the famous North Korea attractions . Other unique towering architectures are The Juche Tower and the Arch of Triumph, which are notable landmarks of North Korea. These remarkable architectures commemorate North Korea’s ideology and national achievements. These architectural marvels offer tourists an insight into the country’s emphasis on self-reliance. One of the most iconic North Korea tourist places is the Grand Monument on Mansu Hill. It has two 20m-long bronze statues of Kim II Sung and Kim Jong II. Many tourists visit here to learn about the history of this place. North Korea boasts some beautiful beaches. The country’s Pacific coastline is lined with many beautiful beaches. These beaches are one of the best places to visit in North Korea if you want to have a quaint vacation. The long stretches of sand, dramatic cliffs, rock outlets, and abundance of nature are what make a beach-lover happy. For a tranquil experience, you should not miss out on visiting Lake Sijung. This lake is a perfect place to rejuvenate your soul and relax. North Korea may have not been on the list of travelers yet, but it has the potential to charm every traveler across the globe. If you want to visit this unique country for its off-the-beaten experiences, take the help of Dook International . We have attractive North Korea tour packages that you can customize as per your travel needs. Our tour packages offer exciting experiences and North Korea tourist places to visit for a fulfilling vacation. So, plan a holiday in North Korea with Dook.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in North Korea

Geumsusan Taeyang Gungjeon

The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun formerly the Kumsusan Memorial Palace and sometimes referred to as the Kim Il-sung Mausoleum is a building near the northeast corner of the city of Pyongyang that serves as the mausoleum for Kim Il-sung the founder of North Korea and for his son Kim Jong-il both posthumously designated as eternal leaders of North Korea. The palace was built in 1976 as the Kumsusan Assembly Hall and served as Kim Il-sungs official residence. Following the elder Kims death in 1994 Kim Jong-il had the building renovated and transformed into his fathers mausoleum. It is believed that the conversion cost at least 100 million. Some sources put the figure as high as 900 million. Inside the palace Kim Il-sungs embalmed body lies inside a clear glass sarcophagus. His head rests on a Korean-style pillow and he is covered by the flag of the Workers Party of Korea. Kim Jong-il is now on display in a room close to his fathers remains and positioned in a very similar way. At 115000 square feet Kumsusan is the largest mausoleum dedicated to a Communist leader and the only one to house the remains of multiple people.

Workers' Party Foundation Monument

Kim Il Sung Square

Grand People's Study House

National Martyrs Cemetery

Mansudae Fountain Park

Juche Tower

Things to do in north korea.

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North Korea Landmarks – 11 Famous Places in North Korea

Table of Contents

About the Landmarks in North Korea

In this article, we will look at some of the most famous North Korea landmarks from the golden statues of the Kims to the Juche Tower, DMZ and more. I have visited North Korea twice, once in 2017 and again in 2018 and I have visited three of the largest cities; Sinuiju, Pyongyang and Kaesung.

Pyongyang is the capital of the DPRK, also known as North Korea . The city is home to 3 million people which makes it a rather small capital city by world standards. The Taedong River runs through the centre, and there are many famous North Korea landmarks throughout the capital.

The city was largely flattened during the Korean War and rebuilt in the utilitarian Stalinist style of the Soviet Union. To me the city resembles Tirana in Albania a lot more than say Moscow, however.

So, without further ado, here are 11 landmarks in North Korea that every visitor to the DPRK should see!

Top 11 North Korea Landmarks

1. kim il sung square.

One of the most famous North Korea landmarks is Kim Il Sung Square . You will likely recognize the square from news reports showing marching North Korean soldiers and displays of weaponry. It’s also where people gather on special occasions like New Years for large parties with a stage for live music (this was being set up ready for the New Year celebrations while I was there).

There is an English language bookshop not far from the square where you can buy books about North Korea. There is also an assortment of usual tourist tat (which naturally I availed myself of) including postcards, posters, pins, mugs and newspapers.

2. Mansudae Grand Monument

The Mansudae Grand Monument is home to the two large bronze statues of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il , the grandfather and father of current leader Kim Jong Un . Flanking the statues are monuments to soldiers who fought during the Korean War and are very similar to those you can find in any ex-soviet city. If you look to the east with your back to the statues you can see the hammer, sickle and calligraphy brush of the Monument to the Party Foundation in the distance.

Mansudae is a very important place for North Koreans and you will find wedding parties and others coming to lay wreaths (5 Euros/optional) and taking a bow (compulsory).

It is imperative to behave with respect while at the statues. Pay attention to your guides and do as they ask. When taking photos have your hands by your side and do not make any gestures. Ensure that no parts of the statues are cropped in the picture. No running, joking, mimicking or any other behavior that would be deemed disrespectful. Cover up any logos you might have on t-shirts and no ripped jeans.

3. Juche Tower (One of the Most Impressive North Korea Landmarks)

Another of the North Korea landmarks is the 170 metre (560ft) Juche Tower . The tower sits on the east side of the Teadong River and dominates the skyline of Pyongyang. The tower is usually shrouded in a thin layer of mist. The Juche Tower is included in our list of 27 incredible Asia Landmarks !

Completed in 1982, it was constructed to commemorate Kim Il Sung’s 70 th birthday. You can take a somewhat rickety and old elevator up to the top for magnificent views of the city (5 Euros). If you are not good with heights or enclosed spaces, give it a miss, although I clenched my teeth and went up and was glad I did for the views and photo opportunities.

4. Pyongyang Metro

The capital has two metro lines and 17 stations that only cover the west side of the Taedong River. We were told the river was too deep to tunnel under, and an accident while trying to build this section cost up to 100 lives.

It is the deepest metro system in the world at 360 feet (110 metres) deep. The stations are grand affairs similar to the Moscow Metro and each station has its own theme. We rode a total of seven stops and got off to see three of the stations.

The network carries between 300,00 and 700,00 people each day and is used by North Koreans getting to work and school. A trip on the metro provides a nice insight into daily life in Pyongyang.

5. Arch of Triumph

The Arch of Triumph is another of North Korea’s famous landmarks and was built to honour resistance to the Japanese. Although it is modeled on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, it is 33 feet taller (10 meters) than its Parisian namesake. This makes it the second-largest triumphal arch in the world after the Monumento a la Revolucion in Mexico.

6. Grand People’s Study House

The Grand People’s Study House is a library and centre of learning open to all Pyongyang residents at university age and above. It is situated overlooking Kim Il Sung Square and features traditional Korean design. The views from the rooftop are some of the best in the city (no photos directly south as there are sensitive government buildings nearby).

7. USS Pueblo & Military Museum

Another of North Korea’s landmarks is the USS Pueblo. The Pueblo was an American spy ship caught in North Korean waters on 23 rd January 1968. The vessel disguised itself as an environmental research ship, but was actually part of the US Navy Intelligence.

One American was killed during the capture and the other 83 servicemen aboard were captured and taken prisoner. The 83 prisoners were released after 11 months of negotiations but endured torture and mock executions during their time in captivity.  The Pueblo is the only US Naval ship that is still being held captive and is now a tourist attraction.

If the propaganda on the streets is not enough, then a visit to the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum will surely overload you. The museum was updated in 2014 and now resembles a grand hotel with ornate staircases and crystal chandeliers. There are some interesting exhibits including a 360-degree diorama of the battle of Taejon. The exhibit includes a revolving floor and illuminations of gunfire, smoke and bombs.

One of the highlights of this tour is being led by a North Korean army Captain (the only soldier I’ve ever seen wearing high heels). It might be possible to ask for a photo (one of the only times photography of army personnel is not strictly prohibited).

8. Monument to the Party Foundation

One of the defining symbols of North Korea and the Juche ideology is the combined hammer, sickle and calligraphy brush. This North Korea landmark represents the workers, farmers and intellectuals.

You will see the yellow symbol on a red background on posters along the streets and atop buildings.  This concrete manifestation dominates central Pyongyang and can be seen from many places in the city. The monument is 50 metres (164ft) tall. This represents the 50 years from the foundation of the Workers’ Party of Korea.

9. Arch of Reunification

The Monument to the Three-Point Charter to Reunification is a 180-foot (55 metre) high sculpture spanning the reunification Highway. The road leads south from Pyongyang down to Kaesung and the border with South Korea.

10. Ryugyong Hotel

The vast triangular Ryugyong Hotel is another of the North Korea landmarks that dominates the Pyongyang skyline. At 105 stories (1,082 feet/330 metres) tall it is an impressive spectacle, but scratch the neon surface and you will find a hotel that has been under construction since 1987 and likely will never see a single guest.

11. The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is the strip of land separating North and South Korea. Sometimes known as the “38th Parallel”, this heavily fortified area is famous for the blue truce huts at Panmunjom where talks between the north and the south take place.

It is possible to visit the DMZ from both North and South Korea on a tour from either Pyongyang in the north or Seoul in the south.

How to Visit North Korea

The only way to visit North Korea, unless you are a diplomat or visiting student, is to take a pre-arranged tour. I went with Young Pioneer Tours who are specialists in North Korean travel and have been taking groups to the DPRK for many years.

Your tour operator will arrange a VISA for you (50 Euros with YPT) and this can be done easily by just sending a scan of your passport. The North Korean VISA is one of the easiest to obtain as the North Koreans are very keen for tourists to visit. At this point in time American and South Korean citizens are unable to visit the DPRK.

How to see the North Korea Landmarks

The only way to see these places in North Korea is to take a guided tour. There are many tours that take in these tourist attractions, and different ways of entering the country.

There are two ways to reach the capital; train from Dandong in China or a flight from Beijing with Air Koryo. I would thoroughly recommend the train as you will get a chance to see a lot of North Korean countryside. You will also witness people going about their daily life in the fields and small villages the train passes by.

To book a tour to North Korea, contact Young Pioneer Tours who have a vast range of tours to the DPRK. Quote Code: TRIPYPT20 to get a FREE North Korea t-shirt from YPT!

You might find these articles interesting:

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

4 thoughts on “ North Korea Landmarks – 11 Famous Places in North Korea ”

this was a good website to see landmarks

has it been the same construction company working on Ryugyong Hotel this whole time or have there been multiple pulled together to try and speed up the time till completion

Hi Aaron, to the best of my knowledge no one has been working on the hotel for years.

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Best Places To Visit In North Korea (If You Make It There!)

Posted on Last updated: 22/11/2022

Let’s be honest. Most probably, it was your curiosity that compelled you to read about a country that is least associated with tourism. What is it like? Is it possible to travel there? Will Kim Jong Un want to meet you personally?

Well, the magic words to the tourist portal of this Korean peninsula are rules, obedience and tour guides. The hermit kingdom of North Korea has its rules. And if you want an experience that may otherwise put you in serious trouble, you will have to obey them to the dot.

You will only be allowed to visit with a tour guide — no solo travel will be allowed.

If you put in the effort and are willing to be disciplined, here are the 7 best places to visit in North Korea on your controlled tour.

Table of Contents

1. Pyongyang Metro

At the top of our list of the best places to visit in North Korea is the metro system at the heart of Pyongyang. Opened to the Korean public in 1971, the Pyongyang Metro is the world’s deepest subway system to date.

Opened to foreigners in 2014, the metro has managed to become a prime tourist attraction in the years that followed. Foreigners can take the train and stop at each substation to check the architecture that narrates the history — of its wars, victories and liberations.

This can well be your chance to mingle with the Korean public as the citizens crowd the trains day in and day out.

2. Mansudae Grand Monument

Also known as Mansu Hill Grand Monument , this iconic complex situated in the capital city of Pyongyang continues to be a prominent landmark among foreigners and locals alike.

The 22-metre-tall statues of President Kim Il Sung and General Kim Jong are the centre of this tourist attraction.

People can’t be seen gathering in the square unless to pay respect to the late leaders, with flowers and bows. It is surely on our list of the best places to visit in North Korea.

3. Triumphal Arch

Standing tall at a height of 60 metres, the Arch of Triumph was opened in Pyongyang to mark the 70th birthday of North Korea’s first leader — President Kim Il-sung.

It is just a bit taller and resembles the Triumphal Arch in Paris, making it the second tallest Triumphal Arch in the world.

If you are entering Pyongyang from the airport, your tour bus may make a stop on the way, giving you a chance to walk around this well-known structure that symbolizes the revolution of the Korean nation.

4. Koryo Museum, Kaesong

Depicting the culture and traditions of the Koryo dynasty through more than 1000 artefacts, the Koryo museum is the place to be for history buffs!

Spacious and surreal, this historical museum paints a picture of Korean history in mind as they get to walk around ancient trees and small hut houses.

Situated in the city of Kaesong, the Korean museum was once an academic centre in the 11th century AD.

5. Tower Of The Juche Idea

The tower of the Juche Idea in Pyongyang was built to honour the political ideology of self-reliance, the Juche philosophy.

Reaching the sky at 170m, the tower was flaunted to the public in 1982, commemorating President Kim Il-sung’s 70th birthday, rightly doing so by building it with 25,550 blocks of granite — the number of days the leader had surpassed at the time.

On top of the tower is a torch that lights up at night. Located along the banks of the famous Taedong River, the panoramic view of the city from the top is worth the five euros it will cost you for the trip.

At the foot of the tower is a statue of 30m in height, depicting the communist influence on the nation, and makes this destination deserve its place on our list of best places to visit in North Korea.

6. Munsu Water Park

Your travel to North Korea will revolve around Pyongyang for most of it —yes, the Munsu Water Park , the largest leisure park in the country was built in its capital city.

Opened in the latter part of the year 2013, the water park has a wax statue of President Kim Jong II, of which you are not allowed to take pictures.

Locals — both young and old, come in numbers to experience the host of activities it offers. With restaurants and cafes inside the gates, you can spend a fulfilling day on your visit.

7. Paektu Mountain

Saving the best for the last, Mount Paektu is a landscape of oozing serenity.

It is the tallest mountain on the Korean peninsula and offers ecstatic views of lakes surrounded by untouched forests and the cleanest of air. Mount Paektusan was also the ground on which the famous guerrilla war against Japanese rule took place.

You will not be able to access the mountain if you visit from May to September, and you can only reach the city by plane from Pyongyang.

An extinguished volcano with a predominantly cold climate, this landmark is one of the best places to visit in North Korea.

Recommended reading: Places to include in your South Korea Itinerary | Places to visit in Japan

14 Top Things to See in Pyongyang | North Korea

Pyongyang, the capital city of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), is a unique and fascinating place. The main things to see in Pyongyang are showcasing the history of the Workers’ Party of Korea, the conquests of the supreme leaders, Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il, and their desire for reunification with South Korea. There’s more to it than this but let’s save that for another blog!

Things to see in Pyongyang

Juche tower.

The Juche Tower is situated on the east bank of the River Taedong in Pyongyang, directly opposite Kim Il-sung Square on the west bank. It was built to commemorate Kim Il-sung’s 70th birthday. At the entrance you can see 82 friendship plaques from foreign supporters and Juche study groups.

The Arch Of Triumph

The Arch of Triumph, built in 1982, commemorates the Korean resistance to Japan from 1925 to 1945. After national liberation in 1945 from Japanese colonial rule, President Kim Il Sung returned home and delivered a triumphant speech to the Korean people and The Arch of Triumph was built close to this place.

The mosaic of this momentous occasion in 1945 when he said everyone should be involved in building a new country. Our guide told us that Kim Il Sung announced “The rich should dedicate their money, the strong should dedicate their strength and the wise should dedicate their knowledge.”

Arch Of Reunification

The Arch of Reunification (or Monument to the Three Charters for National Reunification), opened in August 2001, is located at the southern entrance to Tongil Street in Pyongyang. It symbolises the potential unity between two countries, North and South Korea. Towering over the highway, the grand arch represents twin sisters holding a sphere with a map of the unified Koreas, and has served as the representation of the nations’ dream to become one democratically governed ‘Koryo Federation.’

The 3 Principles of National Reunification will be achieved

• without the involvement of foreign powers
• without the involvement of war and
• with the will and participation of the whole Korean Nation

Monument To Party Founding

The Monument to Party Founding was erected in October 1995 (Juche 84) at Munsu Street to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea hence why the monument is 50m tall. Built on the instruction of Kim Jong Il, it conveys the proud history of the Workers’ Party of Korea composed of workers, farmers of ‘traditional’ communist ideology and intellectuals depicted by the hammer, sickle and brush seized by a worker, a farmer and an intellectual.

The Korean text on the surrounding circle reads; “The organisers of the victory of the Korean people and the leader of the Workers Party of Korea!” and the inner diameter of 42m reflects the year General Kim Jong Il was born (1942). The red apartments were built to represent the shape of the flags, the writing on the top essentially means ‘ever victorious’.

Mansu Hill Grand Monument

A 20 metre high giant bronze monument to Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il on Mansu Hill is one of the most sacred sites in North Korea. It is a collection of monuments (228 figures in total) and behind the Great Leaders is a mosaic mural portraying Mount Paektu, a mountain considered to be sacred within Korea.

On either side of the leaders, there are enormous stones with KWP flags and 228 bronze figures all standing at 5 meters high. This sculpture is symbolic of the socialist revolution and the struggle against North Korea’s imperialist enemies.

Visitors are expected to show the correct visiting etiquette by purchasing flowers to lay at the giant statues’ feet, marching in sombre line, hands by your sides, and bowing.

Taesongsan Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery

Taesongsan Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery is a memorial to the North Korean soldiers fighting for freedom and independence against Japanese rule. The cemetery is constructed on top of Mount Taesong, just outside Pyongyang and boasts a magnificent view of Pyongyang city if you catch it on a clear day.

Bronze busts adorn each grave but the most notorious is the grave of  Kim Jong Suk , wife of Kim Il Sung and mother of Kim Jong Il, hailed as an anti-Japanese war hero, can be found at the top of the cemetery. It is etiquette to bow to her statue. 

Kumsusan Palace Of The Sun

The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun is a mausoleum complex of the DPRK leaders, President Kim Il Sung and General Kim Jong Il, who lie in state. Inside separate rooms, their embalmed bodies lie presented inside climate-controlled clear glass sarcophagi for public viewing.

All visitors are required to wear formal dress, you enter through metal detectors, step across show cleaners and go through blowers to rid your clothes of dust. It is mandatory to stand in a line and bow to the leaders 3 times, once on the left, then the head, then to the right. Their most treasured possessions such as yacht, Mercedes, and even the train that Kim Jong-il died in which was presented in the same state including the document for provisions of fish to the people with his final signature on it.  

The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun is open to foreign traveller only on a Thursday and Sunday morning, or on special occasions. Strictly no photography is allowed until you reach the gardens. The visit is a surreal but interesting experience.

Fatherland Liberation War Museum

The Victorious Fatherland War Museum is a large museum devoted to North Korea’s victories against its imperialist enemies. You are greeted by large bronze war figures and a huge display of American tanks, helicopters and equipment all taken down or recovered. Upon entering the main museum, photos or recording of any kind was not allowed.

The USS Pueblo is on show at the museum which was attacked and seized by the North Korean Navy in 1968. One sailor was killed in the assault and 82 were captured and held prisoner for 11 months before they were freed, their ‘confessions’ are on show inside the ship. This Cold War spy ship is the only U.S. Navy vessel being held by a foreign government.

Grand People’s Study House

The Grand People’s Study House is the national library of North Korea. It is located in the centre of Pyongyang and forms the background of Kim Il Sung Square. It took a year and 9 months to be completed and was opened in April 1982 to coincide with President Kim-Il-sung’s 70th birthday.

It is stocked with 30 million books and can accommodate 10,000 people per day. We joined an English class and the students were super excited to try out their English on a native speaker.

Pyongyang Metro

The Pyongyang Metro consists of two lines with 17 stations and is one of the deepest metros in the world, with the track reported to be 110 metres (360 ft) deep underground as it also serves as a bomb shelter. Socialist realist art such as mosaics, murals and statues can be found in the stations. Trains run every 3 to 5 minutes with 500,000 riders per day.

There are 2 main stations that tourists see although it is now possible to ride on the rest of the metro. Prosperity Station, the first stop on Line 1 is one of the larger stations and Glory Station. has chandeliers that represent the fireworks that went up after the end of the Korean War. The North Koreans can be seen at the newspaper stands looking for the latest scoop on the Trump and Kim Jong-un Summit in Vietnam.

Kimilsungia And Kimjongilia Flower Exhibition Centre

Kimilsungia is a tropical orchid strain that was presented to President Kim Il Sung as a gift during his visit to Indonesia. Kimjongilia is a begonia strain named after Kim Jong Il.

The Kimilsungia exhibition can be seen around Kim Il Sung’s birthday (Festival of the Sun) on the 15th of April. The Kimjongilia exhibition can be seen around Kim Jong Il’s birthday (Festival of the Shining Star) on the 16th of February.

Mirae Scientists Street

Mirae Scientists Street (Future Scientists Street) was formally opened in 2015 and was developed to house scientific institutions and their employees. The tallest building is the 53-story blue Mirae Unha Tower. The street is designed to emphasise Kim Jong-un’s focus on science and technology, built around the regime’s nuclear weapons development. Mirae Scientists Street was reportedly the first location where the Mirae public WiFi network was installed.

Korean People’s Army Circus

Pyongyang Circus was completed on May 1, Juche 78 (1989) so it is a fairly modern building filled with trophies in the corridors. You will be in awe of the daring trapeze and acrobatic routines, some had me hiding behind my hands as they were elegantly thrown from one side of the room to the other.

There were comedy interludes with audience participation. however, I was devastated to see a bear in one of the performances, we were not warned before the show.  I’m told this does not happen in the Korea People’s Army Circus.

Performances By The Socialist Women’s Union

Every morning the workers are encouraged and motivated by the beats of the Socialist Women’s Union of Korea. They performed for 2 hours and we saw different coloured uniforms around the city. These ladies were in a prime spot in front of the Grand Theatre where revolutionary operas and dances are performed.

The Socialist Women’s Union of Korea is the oldest and one of the most important mass organisations in DPRK. Membership has been restricted to those women who are not members of any other mass organisation. As a result, Union members are effectively composed of women who do not work outside of the home. Women between the ages of 31 and 60 are eligible for membership, although if a woman marries and becomes a housewife, she is eligible regardless of age.

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20 comments.

Such a historical detailed blog post on Korea! I would love to visit there someday. I would be interested to seeing the army circus and watching their creative talents.

There’s so much history that I learnt through being there and my own research. It was a fascinating trip for sure!

Such a fascinating place and history! Not sure if I’ll ever visit but interesting read and nice to see so many photos, thanks for sharing.

It was fascinating and I’m glad to have experienced it, very different to any other country I have been to for obvious reasons.

Hmmn…I wouldn’t go even if paid to.What you didn’t mention was that you had a state guide telling you hat to take photos of and showing you “tourist approved” spots to take photos of. The citizens you obviously saw you couldn’t speak to freely. I could go on… What a very stark and dry city!

Totally agree, you are shown what the guides permit you to see! My next post will be more about the dos and donts but this was more showing the history of some of the monuments in Pyongyang.

Great photos of Pyongyang! I didn’t even realize you can travel to North Korea. How were you able to visit? Did you need a visa?

You can only travel with state-owned tours, you get a minimum of 2 guides per group and the visas are issued by companies in Beijing. The guides stay with you the whole time, even stay in the hotel, no wandering off of your own. Very different to any other country I’ve visited.

Your pictures are very pretty and you put a positive spin on a controversial place. It is our history and I appreciate your post showing the area and teaching some about the history of North Korea. I, myself, would not want to visit the area, but I like to see how it looks and learn more about it. I guess that is what I am trying to say. I look forward to hearing more from you.

I wanted this post to be more factual about the monuments and the history behind them. Many people prefer to not go but I’m curious to see places for myself. There will be more coming!

Very interesting to see some of these places. Is it worth all the effort it takes to travel there?

I’m glad I visited. It’s like a step back in time really and it’s quite an experience on so many levels.

North Korea always remains a mystery to the outside world. We have different notions for the same. Your article provides a clear insight on the country and tourism points.

It really is the epitome of the hermit kingdom but the mystery isn’t fully unravelled with such a guarded visit.

I haven’t been to any place in Korea yet, but it has perpetually been in my dream country to visit. I love that you were able to divvy up with us all the historical places in Korea. The Arch of Triumph is something I should not miss to explore if I get the opportunity.

I’ve still to see South Korea to feel the contrast. There will be more blogs to come from places outside Pyongyang… watch this space!

Visiting Korea is so on my bucket list. I am glad to be reading about Pyongyang. It has such a great history. I will certainly add this place to my itinerary for Korea. The pictures are amazing too! Can’t wait to explore Pyongyang soon. Thank you for sharing!

Thank you so much, glad you liked the blog and photos. It’s a surreal experience but one I’m happy I did, I hope you make the trip.

It’s always been my dream to visit North Korea, however, I’ve never found affordable tours. I heard Chinese travel agencies tend to charge a lot less but I don’t know if they’ll process foreign passports. I really hope I’ll be able to go soon.

Ours were organised from Beijing and the passports in my group were from all over. Visiting North Korea is a surreal trip but one I’m glad I experienced.

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Tourism in North Korea

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Tourism in North Korea is certainly unique. But why is this industry so interesting and how should it best be managed? Read on to find out…

Geography in North korea

Statistics about tourism in north korea, popular tourist attractions in north korea, popular types of tourism in north korea, economic impacts of tourism in north korea, social impacts of tourism in north korea, environmental impacts of tourism in north korea, crime and safety in north korea, types of tourists that travel to north korea, required budget to visit north korea, faqs about tourism in north korea, to conclude: tourism in north korea.

North Korea is located on the Korean Peninsula in East Asia, with a total land area of 120,538 square kilometres. It shares a border with China to the north and northwest, Russia to the northeast, and South Korea to the south. It also has a small coastline along the East Sea (Sea of Japan). The country’s topography is mountainous, with about 80% of the land covered in mountains and only a small amount of arable land. The highest mountain in North Korea is Mount Paektu, which is an active volcano with a height of 2,744 metres. The country’s main rivers include the Amnok (Yalu) River, which forms the border with China, and the Tumen River, which forms the border with Russia. The capital city, Pyongyang, is located on the western coast of the country and is home to more than 2.5 million people.

The tourism industry in North Korea is very limited and controlled by the government. Only a small number of tourists are allowed to visit the country each year, and they are only permitted to stay in designated hotels and must be accompanied by government-approved guides at all times. This is due to the country’s strict political system and security concerns.

Despite these limitations, North Korea still attracts a small number of tourists, mainly from China and other neighbouring countries. These tourists are usually interested in the country’s socialist history, political system, and propaganda. The government has invested in developing infrastructure for the tourism industry, such as new hotels and tour buses, in an effort to increase revenue from tourism.

Many of the tourist attractions in North Korea are related to the country’s political history, such as the Mausoleum of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il in the capital city of Pyongyang. Other popular attractions include the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the border with South Korea, which is the most heavily militarised border in the world, and the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, which is the former residence of Kim Jong Il and is now a mausoleum for both Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.

Despite the limited number of tourists, the tourism industry in North Korea has the potential to grow in the future. The government has been actively promoting tourism as a way to improve the country’s economy and increase revenue from foreign visitors. However, the country still faces challenges in attracting more tourists due to its international reputation and political isolation. The government will need to make significant changes to its policies and human rights record in order to attract more international tourists.

Now, lets demonstrate how significant tourism in North Korea is but highlighting some of the key statistics:

(It’s worth noting that the North Korean government does not release official tourism statistics, and obtaining accurate information on tourism in the country is difficult. However, here are some key statistics based on estimates and reports from various sources)

1 – In 2019, it is estimated that North Korea received about 100,000 visitors, with about 70% of them coming from China.

2 – The average length of stay for tourists in North Korea is between 5 and 8 days.

3 – Most tourists to North Korea visit as part of a group tour arranged by a travel agency, and independent travel is not allowed.

4 – The majority of tourists to North Korea are interested in the country’s political history and propaganda, rather than leisure or business travel.

5 – Tourists are only allowed to stay in government-approved hotels, and there are currently about 40 hotels in the country that are open to foreigners.

6 – The most popular tourist destinations in North Korea include the capital city of Pyongyang, the Demilitarized Zone, the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, and the Mount Kumgang tourist resort.

7 – North Korea has been involved in talks with South Korea and China to develop joint tourism initiatives, such as a plan to create a “Peace Zone” on the border between the two Koreas.

8 – North Korea has faced various international sanctions and travel restrictions, which have reduced the number of tourists visiting the country in recent years.

9 – The North Korean government heavily controls and monitors tourist activities in the country, with tourists required to follow strict guidelines and be accompanied by government-approved guides at all times.

10 – North Korea’s tourism industry is seen as a potential source of revenue for the government, but it is also subject to political and ideological considerations. The government has invested in new tourist infrastructure in recent years, but it remains to be seen how successful these initiatives will be in attracting more tourists to the country.

North Korea is a reclusive nation with a tightly controlled tourism industry, but it has some tourist attractions that attract visitors from around the world. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in North Korea:

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun: This large and impressive palace is located in Pyongyang and was the residence of Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea. Today, it houses the preserved bodies of both Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il and is a popular destination for tourists who want to learn more about North Korea’s political history.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): This heavily fortified border area separates North and South Korea, and it is the most heavily militarised border in the world. Tourists can visit the Joint Security Area (JSA), which is the only place where North and South Korean soldiers stand face-to-face.

Mount Kumgang: This scenic mountain and national park is located on the east coast of North Korea and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can take guided hikes to waterfalls, hot springs, and other natural attractions.

Mansudae Grand Monument: This impressive ensemble of statues is located in the capital city of Pyongyang and features large, bronze statues of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. It is considered a symbol of North Korea’s devotion to its leaders and is an important propaganda site for the government.

Pyongyang Metro: The metro system in Pyongyang is a popular tourist attraction, as it boasts some of the most ornate and impressive subway stations in the world. The metro stations are decorated with mosaics, artwork, and other decorative elements that reflect North Korea’s political and historical themes.

While North Korea’s tourism industry is highly controlled, these and other attractions offer a glimpse into the country’s political and cultural history and provide visitors with a unique travel experience. However, as the country remains heavily sanctioned, travellers must be cautious and research their travel plans carefully.

North Korea is one of the most reclusive nations in the world, and its tourism industry is tightly controlled by the government. Nonetheless, it offers a unique travel experience for visitors who are curious about the country’s political and cultural history. Here are some popular types of tourism in North Korea:

Political tourism: This type of tourism is the most common in North Korea, as many visitors are interested in learning about the country’s political history and ideology. Tourists can visit institutions and monuments that reflect the government’s various beliefs on work, social order, and loyalty.

Military tourism: North Korea is known for its strong military presence, and tourists can witness it firsthand at various sites across the country. Visitors can tour military facilities, watch parades, and observe the numerous monuments and plaques that pay homage to the various weapons and personnel.

Natural tourism: North Korea boasts some beautiful natural landscapes, including the Mount Kumgang national park, which offers scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs. Other places to visit include the Ryongmun Cave and the Mount Chilbo area.

Architectural tourism: North Korea is home to many impressive structures and monuments that reflect the country’s political and historical themes. Visitors can take in the sights of the Capital Tower, May Day Stadium, and the Juche Tower, which illustrates the country’s key ideology of self-reliance.

Urban tourism: Pyongyang, the capital city of North Korea, is home to much of the country’s cultural and political institutions. Visitors can take guided tours of the city’s museums, monuments, and squares.

While tourism in North Korea is strictly controlled, visitors can expect to gain a unique perspective on the country’s history and culture. However, it is important for travellers to be aware of the country’s many restrictions and to follow them accordingly.

North Korea’s tourism industry is a relatively small sector of the country’s economy, but it has the potential to generate significant revenue and create jobs. However, given the political nature of the industry, many of the direct and indirect economic impacts are difficult to gauge. Here are some potential economic impacts of tourism in North Korea:

Revenue generation: Tourism is potentially a significant source of foreign currency for North Korea’s economy. By generating revenue through tourist expenditures, the government can finance economic development and other political priorities.

Job creation: By nature, tourism in North Korea requires a significant amount of human capital, such as tour guides, hotel staff, and transportation providers. Therefore, tourism has the potential to create jobs for North Koreans, especially those who may not have other employment options.

Infrastructure investment: To support the tourism industry, the North Korean government has been investing in the development of tourist infrastructure, such as new hotels, tourist trains, and even an international airport in the city of Wonsan. These investments also have broad spillover impacts on other sectors of the economy, such as construction and transportation.

Improved standards of living: In recent years, the North Korean government has recognized the importance of improving its tourism quality to attract more visitors. By improving the standard of living in the country, tourists may have a more positive experience, and this can attract even more visitors to the country.

Overall, while tourism in North Korea has the potential to generate economic benefits for North Korea, its geopolitical and economic status makes it difficult for the country to see significant growth in the industry. Still, the North Korean government continues to invest in the tourism industry, suggesting that it sees tourism as a critical tool for economic development.

Tourism in North Korea can have social impacts on both the host community and the tourists, given the highly controlled nature of the industry. Here are some potential social impacts of tourism in North Korea:

Exposure to other cultures: The limited number of tourists allowed into North Korea each year presents an opportunity for North Koreans to be exposed to different cultures and perspectives. Through interactions with tourists, they may learn new ideas, practices, and behaviours.

Promotion of cultural heritage: Tourism in North Korea can also help promote the preservation and celebration of North Korean cultural traditions. The government encourages tourists to visit sites such as temples, museums, and monuments highlighting North Korea’s customs and arts.

Reinforcement of nationalist ideology: Given the highly controlled nature of tourism in North Korea, visitors are likely to be exposed mainly to carefully selected sites and narratives chosen by the government, portraying a selective version of the country’s history and culture. This can reinforce the nationalist ideology espoused by the state.

Limited social interaction: Because of the highly regimented structure of tourism in North Korea, tourists generally have limited opportunities to interact with locals outside of their approved guides, mostly in formal settings. As a result, tourists may not experience North Korean society and culture in its entirety.

Unequal distribution of benefits: While tourism does generate revenue and employment opportunities, the limited number of people directly involved means that the benefits are not widespread. This can lead to uneven distribution of wealth and further inequalities in the society.

Overall, the social impacts of tourism in North Korea are mostly positive on a superficial level. Nonetheless, given the strong political nature of the industry, the full range of social impact is unclear.

Tourism in North Korea has the potential to have significant environmental impacts, especially given the country’s limited infrastructure and resources. Here are some potential environmental impacts of tourism in North Korea:

Resource consumption: As visitors come to North Korea, they require resources such as water, fuel, and other materials that can put a strain on the country’s limited infrastructure. The high consumption levels of tourists could lead to depletion of resources and environmental degradation.

Waste generation: With an increased number of visitors, the amount of waste generated from the tourism industry could also increase. It is uncertain how effectively the country manages waste, and without proper waste management systems in place, waste could pollute the environment.

Impacts on natural resources: North Korea already faces significant pressures on its natural resources, particularly given the country’s limited land suitable for agriculture. An increase in tourism could further strain these resources. Some popular tourist destinations, such as Mount Kumgang, could be particularly fragile ecosystems that require careful management and protection.

Transportation emissions: Transportation, particularly air travel, is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. As the tourism industry in North Korea grows, the number of flights and other modes of transportation will increase, further contributing to emissions.

Propaganda and environmental narrative: Given the nature of the North Korean regime, it is unclear how accurately the country would choose to portray its environmental initiatives to tourists or address potential environmental issues. The tourist offerings may sustain environmental protection or provide green counsel as part of the broader, historical socialist propaganda.

Crime rates in North Korea are reported to be very low, and violent crime is uncommon. However, given the highly controlled nature of the country, there are significant restrictions on personal freedom, and activities that are legal in other countries may be illegal in North Korea. Additionally, it is worth noting that the North Korean government is known for enforcing its laws with strong consequences, including the possibility of imprisonment or capital punishment. Therefore, while overall crime rates may be low, visitors are still expected to follow the country’s strict laws and avoid any activities that could be considered suspicious or linked to political activities.

When it comes to safety, visitors to North Korea are generally accompanied by government-approved guides at all times, and independent travel is not allowed. The government heavily regulates the tourism industry, including hotel stays and transportation, to ensure visitor safety and avoid any potential incidents. Despite this, tourists are still advised to exercise caution, be aware of their surroundings, and avoid any behaviour that could be considered disrespectful or politically sensitive.

It is worth noting that the U.S. The Department of State has issued a travel advisory for North Korea, warning U.S. citizens against travelling to the country due to the risk of arrest and detention, as well as the possibility of arbitrary arrest, long-term detention, and execution for activities deemed unacceptable by the North Korean government. Many other countries have issued similar travel advisories, and any visitor to North Korea should be aware of the risks involved and take precautions accordingly.

Overall, while crime rates may be low in North Korea, visitors should be aware of the strict laws and regulations in place, as well as the risk of detention or other repercussions for behaviour deemed inappropriate by the government. Visitors should carefully consider the risks and benefits of travelling to North Korea and take necessary measures to ensure their safety while in the country.

Given the tightly controlled nature of the North Korean tourism industry, only a small number of tourists visit the country each year. These visitors generally fall into a few distinct categories, including:

Political tourists: This group makes up the bulk of visitors to North Korea, as many are interested in exploring the country’s political history and ideology. They visit institutions and monuments that reflect the government’s various beliefs on work, social order, and loyalty.

Adventure tourists: North Korea’s natural landscapes and hiking trails have garnered attention among adventure tourists. Although the number of these travellers is low and requires advanced planning, some visitors come to climb the sacred Mount Paektu or hike across the border to the Demilitarized Zone.

Academic and research tourists: North Korea’s political and economic system piques the interest of several academic and research institutions globally. They often visit in organised groups to research various topics such as the economy, geopolitics, socialism, and international relations.

Ethical tourists: A small number of visitors feel it is their moral obligation to travel to North Korea to understand the country and its people better. They may seek out opportunities to meet locals, learn about human rights, and see how non-governmental organisations are supporting communities.

Curiosity tourists: There is a small group of tourists who are mostly driven by curiosity or an interest in visiting a place most of the world has never visited. Given the restrictions and novelty of the travel, visiting North Korea can be both an exciting and challenging opportunity to explore the unknown.

While North Korea’s tourism industry remains heavily regulated, these groups of visitors come with a unique perspective and interest in the country’s political and cultural history, helping to sustain the tourism industry. However, regardless of the purpose of their travel, all have to adhere to strict guidelines, so touring in North Korea will suit only specific tour groups with certain interests, requiring extensive preparations to ensure their safety during the tour.

Visiting North Korea is not as simple as booking a standard holiday. The government controls much of the tourism industry in the country, and tourists must follow strict guidelines and pay for pre-packaged tours that have been approved by the government. Here’s an overview of the required budget for a trip to North Korea:

1 – Flights: Depending on where the visitor is travelling from, flights to North Korea can be expensive. Flights are usually booked through a travel agency or a tour operator and are not included in the tour fee.

2 – Insurance: All tourists visiting North Korea are required to have travel insurance, which can cost around $50 USD for a five-day trip.

3 – Souvenirs: Visitors may want to purchase souvenirs or other items during their trip. However, it is essential to note that many items imported to the country could be seized, and visitors must respect local laws and customs.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in North Korea, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

1 – Is tourism allowed in North Korea?

Yes, tourism is allowed in North Korea, but it is heavily controlled and regulated by the government.

2 – Do North Koreans have access to the same tourist attractions as foreign tourists?

No, local residents are not allowed to visit the same tourist sites as foreign tourists. In North Korea, tourism is used primarily as a way of showcasing the achievements of the country’s leaders and political system.

3 – Can I travel to North Korea independently?

No, independent travel is not allowed in North Korea. All tourists must be accompanied by official guides at all times.

4 – Can I bring my mobile phone or laptop to North Korea?

Yes, tourists are allowed to bring mobile phones and laptops, but these devices may be subject to inspection by authorities at any time.

5 – Can I take photos in North Korea?

Photography is heavily restricted in North Korea, and tourists are not allowed to take photos of military installations or local people without permission. Tourists are only permitted to take photos in designated areas.

6 – Can I pay for things in North Korea with foreign currency?

Yes, tourists can pay for things in North Korea with foreign currency, such as US dollars or euros. However, it is best to bring small denominations and to exchange money at banks or official exchange bureaus.

7 – What is the best time of year to visit North Korea?

The best time to visit North Korea is from April to October when the weather is mild and there are several major cultural events, such as the Mass Games.

8 – Can I visit North Korea as a US citizen?

Yes, US citizens are allowed to travel to North Korea with a tour group, but the State Department has strongly advised against doing so due to the potential risks involved.

9 – What is the cost of tourism in North Korea?

Tourism in North Korea is relatively expensive, and tourists should expect to pay several thousand dollars for a week-long tour. Prices vary depending on the length of the tour and the level of comfort.

10 – Is it safe to travel to North Korea?

The US and other countries have issued travel warnings for North Korea due to the country’s political situation and the potential for arbitrary detention. Tourists are advised to carefully consider the risks before travelling to North Korea.

As you can see, tourism in North Korea is a very important industry that brings many benefits to the local area and community. However, in order to ensure that tourism is sustainable, it must be carefully managed.

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in North Korea

Maybe tourist attractions isn’t the right word for the following ten momunments in North Korea since tourists aren’t welcome in the country, at least if your not Dennis Rodman … However, it would be cool to check out these massive monuments:

Table of Contents

Mansudae Grand Monument

In honour of his 60th birthday, Kim Il-Sung, otherwise known as the ‘Great Leader’, had this huge bronze statue (to the left) erected to commemorate his rule even during his own lifetime. His statue has been looking down over the capital since 1972, and it did so alone until eventually being joined by a similarly impressive statue of the ‘Dear Leader’, Kim Jong Il. In the case of Kim Jong Il, his commemorative statue wasn’t erected until after his death in 2011, being put into position in 2012. You’ll notice that there are many floral tributes placed at the base of the statues. It’s common practice here for people to commemorate their leaders by laying flowers down in this way.

Juche Tower

Just opposite Kim Il Sung Square is the impressive Juche Tower which was made to honour Kim Il Sung’s 70th birthday. From the viewing platform located just beneath the torch on the top of the tower, there are impressive views overlooking Pyongyang. The viewing platforms can be accessed via an elevator. An interesting fact about its construction is that it is composed of 25,500 blocks which correspond to the days of Kim Il Sung’s 70 years (up to his 70th birthday). At the tower’s base is a 30 metre high statue of three figures united at the point of their triumphantly upheld arms. Each figure is holding a different implement, one a hammer, one a sickle, and the other holds a writer’s brush. These tools are the emblems that collectively represent the Workers’ Party of Korea.

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, formerly known as the Kumsusan Memorial Palace, was built in 1976 and acted as Kim Il-Sung’s official residence and the Kumsusan Assembly Hall. It now is the mausoleum for him, the founder of North Korea. After his father’s death, Kim Jong-Il had the building altered to suit the purpose of serving as a mausoleum, where Kim Il-Sung’s body lies embalmed inside a transparent sarcophagus. The palace now houses Kim Jong-Il as well who died in 2011. The Palace of the Sun may only be accessed by tourists on Thursday and Sundays, and then only with an official government approved tour. Photography of any kind is not permitted inside. Just in front of the palace is a large square and impressive moat.

Monument to the Foundation of the Workers Party

These 50 metre tall towers depicting the emblems of the Worker’s Party of Korea, the hammer, the sickle, and the writing brush, were erected on the 50th anniversary of the formation of Korea’s Workers Party. These symbols are representative of Korean workers and their various roles in the workforce. It’s no coincidence that these monuments are each 50 metres high and is also 50 metres at its diameter, as this number signifies the 50 years of the party’s existence at the time of their being built. Emblazoned around the circular base are the words, “Long live the Workers’ Party of Korea which organises and guides all victories for the Korean people!” The monument can found just across from the Mansudae Grand Monuments.

Arch of Triumph

There are many arches commemorating one triumph or another around the world. North Korea’s very own arch distinguishes itself in that it is the world’s tallest standing victory arch standing an impressive 60 metres high and 50 metres wide, that’s 10 metres taller that the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It opened in 1982 to commemorate Korea’s resistance to Japan between 1925 and 1945. The arch was inaugurated on the 70th birthday of Kim Il-Sung in recognition of his role in the resistance. Significantly, the Arch of Triumph is built of 25,500 blocks, which in a similar manner to the Juche Tower, signifies each day of the leader’s life up to his 70th birthday. Inside there are rooms and observation platforms.

Ryugyong Hotel

This impressive rocket shaped structure, Ryugyong Hotel, towers into the sky with its 105 floors and unsurprisingly forms a dominant part of the skyline. Sometimes referred to as the 105 Building, it was finally completed in 2012 after various stops and starts throughout its construction history. It comes as no surprise that the hotel is easily the tallest building in North Korea. The structure is topped by a cone 40 metres wide which is said to be able to rotate.

Three Charters for National Reunification Monument

This huge monument overlooking the Tongil Expressway was built in 2001. The two women facing each other are designed to embody the reunification of North and South Korea. Not surprisingly, being a construction of Northern design, it is built to express the wish that a united Korea would be ruled under North Korea’s leader. The Three Charters, which were formalised by Kim Il Sung in 1972, are a reference to the principles of independence, a peaceful reunification, and national unity.

Rungnado May Day Stadium

The Rungnado May Day Stadium was completed on May 1, 1989. It has a huge capacity of 150,000, making it one of the largest in the world and is the 12th largest sporting venue on the planet. It has been recognised by the Guiness Book of Records as hosting the largest event in the world, namely the Arirang mass games. It also pays host to football matches and other athletic games. The stadium is also used to pay host to huge performances in honour of Kim Il-sung and in celebration of the nation. During June and July, 2002, the stadium held the aforementioned Arirang games, sometimes referred to as the Mass Games, consisting of masterfully choreographed artistic and gymnastic performances, which involved the participation of a staggering 100,000 plus participants. This has become an annual event, usually being held in August and September.

Pyongyang Subway

Pyongyang’s metro system opened in 1973 and is reported to have several hundred thousand commuters daily. This subway system is one of the deepest in the world and is beautifully decorated with sparkling chandeliers, marble columns, pictures of the ‘Great Leader’, and depictions of the city and other sights throughout North Korea.

DMZ: Demilitarized Zone

The Demilitarised Zone attracts a large number of visitors from around the world. It manages to do so in spite of being one of the most heavily armed borders in the world. The benign and unspoilt natural surroundings completely belie the nature of this man made political boundary that has been here since after the Korean War, although it must be said that it is a rare event for hostilities to take place. It’s good to see that this onetime battleground has reverted back to its default setting of a place of natural beauty, and it’s no exaggeration to say that it is one of the most unspoilt areas in all Asia. The Demilitarised Zone serves as a natural habitat even for endangered species such as white-naped and red-crowned cranes. Lynxes and black bears are also to be found here as are a many species of fish, not to mention wetlands and forests.

Menno, from the Netherlands, is an expert in unearthing fascinating facts and unraveling knowledge. At Top10HQ, he delves into the depths of various subjects, from science to history, bringing readers well-researched and intriguing insights.

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Top North Korea Attractions

Things to do in north korea.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Demilitarized Zone

2. Tower of the Juche Idea

3. Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

4. Geumsusan Memorial Palace

5. Kim Il-sung Square

6. Mansudae Grand Monument

7. The State Circus

8. Kim Il Sung Stadium

9. Concrete Wall

10. Triumphal Arch

11. Masikryong Ski Resort

12. Tanjun Mausoleum

13. Rungrado May Day Stadium

14. Monument to the Korean Workers Party

15. Mount Kumgang

16. Daedong River (Taedong River)

17. Grand People's Study House

18. Munsu Water Park

19. Pyongyang Metro

20. Paektusan

21. Mansudae Art Studio Gallery

22. Koryo Museum

23. Koguryo Tombs

24. International Friendship Exhibition

25. Chollima Statue

26. Tomb of King Kongmin

27. Kaeson Youth Park

28. Kwangbok Department Store

29. Pohyonsa

30. Mount Myohyang

What travelers are saying.

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Korea

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Mar 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman has traveled to South Korea multiple times, including a recent trip to Seoul in late 2022.

South Korea offers everything a traveler could want in a destination. It has a long and fascinating history, a wonderful culture, amazing food, friendly people, and an excellent tourism infrastructure (including a new high-speed rail system).

It's also a country of contrasts, with tourist attractions ranging from ancient mountaintop Buddhist temples like Bulguksa to the ultra-modern skyscrapers of Seoul, like the Lotte World Tower.

It also has one of the most unique attractions in the world that can be visited: a no man's land, part of a military border between two countries technically still at war (the DMZ). Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in South Korea.

1. Experience Korean History at Changdeokgung Palace

2. explore beaches and history in busan, 3. visit jeonju, the former spiritual capital of korea, 4. view seoul from above at the n seoul tower, 5. see how people lived 600 years ago at the bukchon hanok village, 6. hike in the mountains at seoraksan national park, 7. look into north korea at the dmz, 8. check out korean art, history, and archeology at the national museum of korea, 9. have fun at korea's largest amusement park, lotte world, 10. gyeongbokgung palace, 11. ride the cable car at hallyeo maritime national park, 12. bulguksa temple, 13. visit the blue house, south korea's white house, 14. enjoy a beach getaway on jeju island, 15. walk through seoul's restored gwanghwamun gate, 16. stay overnight at jingwansa temple, 17. spend a night out in itaewon, 18. enjoy a meal in one of seoul's street food markets, 19. admire cherry blossoms at the jinhae cherry blossom festival, map of tourist attractions in south korea.

Of the five grand palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty in the 15 th century around Seoul, Changdeokgung Palace was always the preferred royal residence. It's where the king and royal family lived their daily lives.

The palace isn't just a single building, it's a complex of buildings, and each served a different purpose. Some are accommodations; some are libraries, dining rooms, and meeting rooms, among other uses. Be sure to spend some time in the 78-acre Huwon, or palace garden, located behind the palace. It's filled with pathways, green spaces, pagodas, streams, and lakes.

Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul

Did you know you can hit the beach in Korea? Busan is the second largest city in the country, and its coast is lined with some beautiful beaches and resorts. There's a lot of culture and history here, too. Be sure to visit the Beomeosa Temple and the hillside village of Gamecheon . Gamecheon is a European-style village on the cliffs above the sea, like Korea's version of Santorini.

Seafood lovers should be sure to visit Jagalchi Market , the country's largest commercial seafood market. Part of the market is open to consumers, and there are many small restaurants that will cook up your purchase, so you can eat it right here.

Getting to Busan is easy, it takes a little more than two hours from Seoul on Korea's KTX high-speed bullet train.

Jeonju is a very historic city, once the spiritual capital of the Joseon Dynasty, it's about 90 minutes by train from Seoul. It's home to many ancient temples and shrines along with a hanok village. These are found throughout Korea. They are preserved neighborhoods of ancient and old homes (hanoks), allowing visitors to get a feel for what life was like in ancient Korea.

Some of the homes in the hanok villages are open for tours, and others have been made into museums (and restaurants and lodging, too), but most remain private homes.

Yes, everyone visiting Seoul should go up in the city's iconic observation tower. Its position almost on top of a mountain, plus the height of the tower itself, gets you almost 500 meters above sea level and the city below.

But, leave some time to explore the surrounding mountain area. The tower is near the top of Mount Namsan, and the entire area is Namsan Park, which is run by the city. There are miles of hiking trails to explore, all within a few minutes of downtown Seoul.

The top levels of the N Seoul Tower include indoor and outdoor observation areas and restaurants. The exterior of the tower is covered in LED lighting, which is illuminated each night in seasonal light shows.

There's a cable car that takes you from the city (near Myeongdong) to the tower's base area. You can then hike from here. After climbing the mountain and riding on the cable car, leave time to explore the Namsan Hanok Village . These preserved historic villages, which are located all over Seoul and Korea, are re-creations of ancient Korean neighborhoods. This village includes five restored hanoks or traditional Korean homes.

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Hanok villages, which can be found in a few places in Seoul and around Korea, are living museums. They're restored and preserved ancient neighborhoods, some in their original location (like Bukchon) and some re-created with hanoks (traditional Korean homes) moved from elsewhere. They give visitors an opportunity to not only experience what it was like to live in a hanok, but also what it was like to live in Korea 600 years ago.

You can experience the tiny, narrow streets and also explore Korean culture, as many of the hanoks are museums or offer cultural demonstrations. Many are private homes, and some offer accommodations. That's what makes these village areas so special; they are true living history because many of the homes are privately owned and occupied by real local residents.

Bukchon Hanok Village is a popular place to explore, as it's right in central Seoul, in the area between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace .

Like the Yosemite of Korea, this majestic natural wonderland (Korea's first national park) has mountains, lakes, waterfalls, streams, and miles of hiking trails that allow you to explore them.

This park is known for its natural diversity, as it has over 1,500 different animal species and over 1,000 different kinds of plants. There are also two Buddhist temples inside the park, one known as the " Temple of a Hundred Pools " due to all the ponds around it fed by mountain streams.

When you get tired of walking, there's a cable car that will take you up Seoraksan Mountain for some incredible views of the mountains and valleys. It takes about four hours by bus or three hours by car to reach the park from Seoul.

DMZ stands for demilitarized zone, and it's the no-man's land border between North and South Korea. Heavily guarded and mined, this strange area can be visited, but only on an official, guided tour. The official area is about four kilometers wide and is formally known as the JSA or Joint Security Area. It's probably the best place to visit in South Korea to learn about this conflict.

The No Shopping Half-Day Korean DMZ Tour from Seoul includes round-trip transportation from Seoul. Official DMZ tours include a visit to the 3rd Tunnel, dug by the North to facilitate an invasion of the South, and to the Dora Observatory, where you can look across no-man's-land into North Korea.

As a world capital, Seoul is filled with a lot of museums. The largest is the National Museum of Korea , and like the Met in New York, it's a place that really can't be explored in a single visit. The vast collection combines art, history, and archeology, presented to show the history of Korean culture and tell the story of the Korean people.

It's also an excellent attraction to see if you only have limited time in Seoul. The collection is beyond vast, as it goes back over a million years. It's fascinating, especially for families and kids as there's such a wide range of objects. Everything from Stone Age tools to modern artwork by Korean artists.

Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu

There's an amusement park right in the middle of downtown Seoul. It's a fun place to spend the day and a chance to immerse yourself in real Korean commercial culture. Lotte World includes a hotel, movie theaters (one with the world's largest screen), a folk museum with traditional performances, and other things to do like ice skating.

This theme park is at the base of the Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in South Korea and the fifth tallest building in the world. The tower has multiple observation areas and experiences, its own luxury hotel (the SIGNIEL SEOUL ), and a range of shopping and dining options inside.

A visit is fun for both kids and adults, and aside from the rides and attractions there's a lot of shopping and also artists' workshops and cultural performances to watch. There's the world's largest indoor theme park and an outdoor theme park area called Magic Island .

For a bigger, outdoor theme park experience, Everland is about 45 minutes outside Seoul and is Korea's version of Disneyland.

Address: Songpa-gu, Jamsil 6(yuk)-dong, Olympic-ro, 300, Seoul

Also known as the Northern Palace, the large Gyeongbokgung Palace complex has gone through some incredible turmoil over the years. It was first built in 1395 during the Joseon dynasty, which built five grand palaces around Seoul. The palace has been bombed, destroyed, and rebuilt several times, occupied by the Japanese (first in 1592), and only finally restored in 1990.

Be sure to check out Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond , two of the remaining original structures from the Joseon period.

The palace compound can be explored on a guided walking tour . There are also two museums inside the grounds (the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum ), both worth a visit.

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

The ruggedly beautiful Hallyeo Maritime National Park includes miles of raw coastline on over 300 separate islands. Each has hiking trails with spectacular ocean and cliff views. The area also features a cable car, known as the Hallyeosudo Viewing Ropeway . It's the only dual-cable, automatic circulating gondola system in the country.

The ride is almost 2.4 kilometers long and takes nine minutes to reach the summit. You're rewarded with sweeping views of the countryside and coastline, including the Japanese island of Daemado. The park is about an hour by bus or car from downtown Seoul.

One of Korea's true must-see Buddhist temples, Bulguksa Temple is considered by many to be the country's most important. It's officially Historic and Scenic Site Number One as classified by the government. The temple is home to seven of the country's national treasures, sacred pagodas, and statues of the Buddha.

The temple is on the slopes of Mount Toham in Gyeongju, the ancient capital city of Korea. It's a city so historic, it's called a "museum without walls" due to all the historic sites and temples. Gyeongju is about two and a half hours from Seoul via the new KTX high-speed train.

Address: 15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Named for the striking blue-tile roofs of its many pavilions and buildings, the Blue House, much like the White House, is the home of the Korean president. The very secure complex of buildings also houses many Korean executive government offices and official meeting sites. It's an interesting place to visit, as it gives you a behind-the-scenes look at modern Korean government and Korean formal culture.

A lot of what you see on the guided sightseeing tour are meeting rooms and official state reception rooms where foreign dignitaries are welcomed. Hour-long public tours are given, but you need to apply online in advance for a security check.

Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

A very popular resort destination (think the Hawaii of Korea), this volcanic island is best reached via a quick hour-long domestic flight from Seoul. The island boasts beautiful beaches along with a lot of culture and history.

The highest mountain in South Korea (a dormant volcano called Hallasan) is here along with miles of giant lava tubes. The lava tubes, which can be explored, are natural air pockets in the hardened lava, the size of railway tunnels.

Be sure to visit Jungmun Beach to see the diving women. These are women who free dive hundreds of feet to catch different types of seafood. This tradition started centuries ago, when the local men were all out on fishing boats. The island also has hundreds of miles of hiking trails and a lot of hot springs and health spas.

This attraction is a giant gate, formerly the opening in the fortress wall to the Gyeongbokgung Palace located within. It was originally built with the palace in the 15 th century but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. Most recently in 2010, it was moved back to its original location in front of the palace and Gwanghwamun Square and restored with authentic materials using traditional techniques.

The previous restoration included concrete and other non-traditional construction techniques, but the new gate has been completely constructed with ancient techniques, using only native woods and handmade fittings.

Gwanghwamun Gate is home to the changing of the guards ceremony (performed since 1469), which happens daily (except Tuesdays) at 10am and 2pm. The area in front of the gate, Gwanghwamun Square, is a large public space often used for political and social demonstrations.

This ancient temple complex about 15 minutes from downtown Seoul offers both an authentic Buddhist temple experience (including a temple stay program) and a beautiful national park. The temple, which was first established at the site in 1,000 BCE, has several programs for visitors to learn about and experience Buddhism and the monk lifestyle.

The temple is a must-visit attraction for foodies, as they grow most of their own food on-site. The temple also prepares its own Korean specialties, like pickling kimchi in ancient, giant pottery jars. Jingwansa offers meals to the public (and extended overnight stays) and educational programs that show the sustainability of the ancient temple operation.

You can do a temple stay program, which includes an overnight visit, or just come for a meal (vegetarian) or to explore the buildings and shrines. You can also visit the area just to explore Bukhansan National Park , as the temple is inside it. There are miles of hiking trails and three peaks, which can be climbed. Aside from the mountains and forests and their spectacular scenery, there are also ruins of an ancient fortress along the hiking trails.

Address: 73 Jingwan-gil, Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

Yes, it's a touristy, ex-pat area filled with gift shops and street food, but the Itaewon neighborhood is a great place to just spend an afternoon wandering around. It's especially fun in the early evening, when residents also come out to grab dinner and people-watch. There's an energy here that defines the cosmopolitan city, and it's also a popular strolling spot for locals. You'll see a lot of Korean families, kids, and couples enjoying the shops and restaurants.

For those in search of authentic Korean food, this is not the place to come, but it is the place to come for international foods not widely available in Seoul. Things like Italian food, pizza, burgers, and American-style western barbecue.

As one of the world's great food cultures, no visit to Korea is complete without enjoying some street food. The Gwangjang Market, in Central Seoul , is truly a foodie heaven on earth. The large covered market area is filled with multiple food stalls offering a complete array of Korean specialties. It's definitely one of the best places to visit in Seoul if you're hungry.

The cool thing about this market and most food markets in Seoul is that the majority of these food stalls are like little mini restaurants in that they have a row of stools and a counter, so you can sit and eat. It's also cool that most stands will offer you a free sample.

Stalls typically offer bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap (rice mixed with sauteed beef, vegetables, and gochujang red chili paste), gimbap (Korean sushi), sundae (blood sausage), tteokbokki (stir-fried spicy rice cakes), and various types of noodles.

Boasting almost 400,000 cherry trees, some over 100 years old, Jinhae is the best place in Korea to enjoy cherry trees blossoming with flowers each spring. This small town, located along South Korea's southern coast, hosts the country's most popular annual cherry blossom festival. Over a million visitors a year come to Jinhae just to see the cherry blossoms.

Formally known as Gunhangjae (Naval Port Festival), the Jinhae cherry blossom festival takes place in late March or early April, depending on when the trees are in flower. Head to Yeojwacheon stream and Jinhae's Gyeonghwa train station for some of the best blossom viewing. You can also enjoy the festival's food markets, public art installations, and live performances.

Getting from Seoul to Jinhae is easy via South Korea's high-speed ATX train — the journey takes just under three hours.

Eric Lafforgue

North Korea

There is quite simply nowhere on Earth like North Korea. Now on its third hereditary ruler, this nominally communist state has defied all expectations and survived the collapse of the Soviet Union to become a nuclear power. A visit to North Korea offers a glimpse of the world's most isolated nation, where the internet and much of the 21st century remain relatively unknown, and millions live their lives in the shadow of an all-encompassing personality cult.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tower of the Juche Idea

This tower honours the North Korean philosophy of Juche and was unveiled to mark President Kim Il-sung's 70th birthday in 1982. Indeed, the tower is made…

International Friendship Exhibition

This exhibition hosts a massive display of gifts given to Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-il and Kim Jong-un. Housed in a mountainside vault that is vaguely…

Tomb of King Kongmin

The 31st Koryo king, Kongmin reigned between 1352 and 1374 and his tomb is the best preserved and most elaborate in the country. It is richly decorated…

Monument to the Foundation of the Workers' Party

This startlingly bombastic monument has starred on the cover of more books about North Korea than almost any other. The three hands portrayed represent…

Mansudae Grand Monument

Every itinerary includes an homage to these vast bronze statues of the smiling Great Leader and Dear Leader, the latter in his trademark parka. The first…

Kim Il-sung Square

Pyongyang’s central square is where North Korea’s massive military parades normally take place. The plaza is ringed by austere-looking buildings: most…

Pyongyang Metro

Visiting the impressive Pyongyang metro is definitely a highlight of the capital. The network, which is made up of two lines, has a simultaneous function…

Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

Perhaps the most interesting museum in Pyongyang, this mouthful of an institution opened its current home in 2013 to mark the 60th anniversary of the end…

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North Korea and beyond

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10 Beautiful and Amazing Tourist Attractions in North Korea 2023-2024

North Korea is a secretive country and tourist destination among the travellers. NK follows strict rules when allowing foreign travellers to visit their country. China is the nearest country which have good relations with North Korea . In recent years, people’s interest surged in searching for beautiful tourist places / tourist attractions in North Korea.

10. North Korea Peace Museum, Panmunjeom

North Korea Peace Museum is an important part of historical places in North Korea. The museum is located in North Hwanghae Province’s Panmunjeom, a former village. On July 27, 1953, the Korean War Armistice Agreement was signed between two nations, North Korea and South Korea.

9. Tomb of King Tongmyong, Pyongyang

Tomb of King Tongmyong is an amazing and historical place to visit in Pyongyang. It’s a mausoleum of King Tongmyong. It is one of the most popular historical landmarks in North Korea.

8. Arch of Triumph, Pyongyang

Arch of Triumph is a beautiful monument which was built to remember the resistance of Korea between 1925-1945. This beautiful monument was opened on April 15, 1982.

7. Changbai Mountains, China – North Korea Border

Changbai Mountains is a chain of beautiful mountains located between North Korea and China border. The tourism is booming on the side of China. You should not miss an opportunity to see these beautiful mountains in North Korea.

6. Juche Tower, Pyongyang

Juche Tower is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in North Korea. The monument was opened on April 15, 1982 in Pyongyang, NK. It’s a perfect place to get best view of the city. You would get good glimpse of people roaming around the city.

5. USS Pueblo, Pyongyang

USS Pueblo is an American spy ship, used by US Navy Intelligence. The ship was captured by the North Korean forces on January 23, 1968. To show off the power of Korean forces, the government created a museum out of spy ship. The museum is located on Taeodong River, Pyongyang. This amazing spy ship attracts thousands of tourists each year.

4. Pyongyang Metro

North Korea is not much developed but you would not believe that, they have a large metro stations with latest facilities. Based on figure of 2009, about 98K people use rapid transit system. In each train, you would able to see photographs of former leaders of North Korea. So, it’s an amazing experience to see this metro system.

3. Mansudae Grand Monument, Pyongyang

Mansudae Grand Monument is a giant monument, located in North Korea’s capital. The monument is a 65 foot bronze statue of the Great Leaders of North Korea. These statues were completed in 1972 and considered as one of the most amazing tourist attractions in North Korea.

2. Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, Pyongyang

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in North Korea. The palace is a popular tourist attraction among the foreign travellers. It’s a burial place of Kim II-sung and Kim Jong-il.

1. Kim II-sung Square, Pyongyang

Kim II-sung Square is a popular and large city square, located in the central district of Pyongyang. The popular square is named after Kim II-sung, the founding father of North Korea.

Article Title: 10 Beautiful and Amazing Tourist Attractions in North Korea

John Mathew

John Mathew is a travel writer and travel enthusiastic, primarily interested in how to get to any place, hotels guide, resorts guide, destination guide, and worldwide travel tips.

Top North Korea Attractions

Things to do in north korea.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Demilitarized Zone

2. Tower of the Juche Idea

3. Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

4. Geumsusan Memorial Palace

5. Kim Il-sung Square

6. Mansudae Grand Monument

7. The State Circus

8. Kim Il Sung Stadium

9. Concrete Wall

10. Triumphal Arch

11. Masikryong Ski Resort

12. Tanjun Mausoleum

13. Rungrado May Day Stadium

14. Monument to the Korean Workers Party

15. Mount Kumgang

16. Daedong River (Taedong River)

17. Grand People's Study House

18. Munsu Water Park

19. Pyongyang Metro

20. Paektusan

21. Mansudae Art Studio Gallery

22. Koryo Museum

23. Koguryo Tombs

24. International Friendship Exhibition

25. Chollima Statue

26. Tomb of King Kongmin

27. Kaeson Youth Park

28. Kwangbok Department Store

29. Pohyonsa

30. Mount Myohyang

What travellers are saying.

World countries facts

• World countries
• East and Southeast Asia

Korea, North

• Tourist attractions

Democratic People's Republic of Korea East and Southeast Asia Pyongyang 24,851,627 inhabitants 120,538 sq km 206.17 inhabitants/sq km North Korean won (KPW) population evolution

Top tourist attractions in Korea, North

Here is a list of top tourist attractions in Korea, North . Only the topmost tourist destinations are presented here. To see other destinations, please check the images from Korea, North section.

Curious if any of these place from Korea, North made it our best tourist attractions in the world list? Read the aformentioned article in order to find out.

You can also view all tourist attractions in Korea, North and other countries on our tourist attractions map .

Paektu Mountain

Stratovolcano

Baekdu, Paektu, or Changbai Mountain is an active volcano on the border between North Korea and China. At 2,744 m, it is the highest mountain of the Changbai and Baekdudaegan ranges. It is also the highest mountain on the Korean Peninsula and in northeastern China. A large crater lake, called Heaven Lake, is in the caldera atop the mountain.

USS Pueblo (AGER-2)

USS Pueblo (AGER-2) is an American ELINT and SIGINT Banner-class technical research ship which was boarded and captured by North Korean forces on 23 January 1968, in what is known as the Pueblo incident or alternatively as the Pueblo crisis or the Pueblo affair. The declassified SIGAD for the National Security Agency Direct Support Unit from the Naval Security Group on Pueblo during the patrol involved in the incident was USN-467Y. The capture, less than a week after President Lyndon B. Johnson's State of the Union address and only a week before the start of the Tet Offensive, and subsequent 11-month prisoner drama were major incidents in the Cold War. North Korea stated that Pueblo strayed into their territorial waters, but the United States maintains that the vessel was in international waters at the time of the incident. Pueblo, still held by North Korea today, officially remains a commissioned vessel of the United States Navy. She was moored along the Taedong River in Pyongyang, and used there as a museum ship. Pueblo is the only ship of the U.S. Navy currently being held captive.

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

Tourist attraction

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, formerly the Kumsusan Memorial Palace, and sometimes referred to as the Kim Il-sung Mausoleum, is a building located near the northeast corner of the city of Pyongyang and serves as the mausoleum for Kim Il-sung, the founder and eternal president of North Korea, and for his son Kim Jong-il who succeeded him as the country's ruler. The palace was built in 1976 as the Kumsusan Assembly Hall, and served as Kim Il-sung's official residence. Following the elder Kim's death in 1994, Kim Jong-il had the building renovated and transformed into his father's mausoleum. Despite hundreds of thousands starving to death in a famine at the time, it is believed that the conversion cost at least $100 million. Some sources put the figure as high as $900 million. Inside the palace, Kim Il-sung's embalmed body lies inside a clear glass sarcophagus. His head rests on a Korean-style pillow and he is covered by the flag of the Workers' Party of Korea. Kim Jong-Il is now on display in a room close to and very similar to his father's. Kumsusan is the largest mausoleum dedicated to a Communist leader, and the only one to house the remains of multiple people. It is fronted by a large square, approximately 500 metres in length. It is bordered on its northern and eastern sides by a moat.

Juche Tower

The Juche Tower is a monument in Pyongyang, North Korea. The tower is named after the principle of Juche, developed by Kim Il Sung as a blend of autarky, self-reliance, nationalism, Korean traditionalism, and Marxism-Leninism.

Arch of Triumph

The Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang was built to commemorate the Korean resistance to Japan from 1925 to 1945. It is the world's tallest triumphal arch, standing 60 m high and 50 m wide. Built in 1982 on the Triumph Return Square at the foot of Moran Hill in the North Korean capital city of Pyongyang, the monument was built to honour and glorify President Kim Il-sung's role in the military resistance for Korean independence. Inaugurated on the occasion of his 70th birthday, each of its 25,500 blocks of finely-dressed white granite represents a day of his life up to that point.

Korea Central Zoo

The Korea Central Zoo, also referred to as the Pyongyang Central Zoo, is the national zoo of North Korea. It is located near Mt. Taesong in downtown Pyongyang. The zoo has over 5,000 wild animals, comprising a total of 650 species, and covers an area of roughly one square kilometre. It was established in April 1959 at the instruction of Kim Il-sung.

North Korea Peace Museum

The North Korea Peace Museum is in the building constructed to house the signing of the Korean War Armistice Agreement on 27 July 1953. It is located in the former village of Panmunjeom in North Hwanghae Province, North Korea. It is located approximately 1.2 kilometres north-west of the Joint Security Area, in the northern half of the Demilitarized Zone. The building is all that remains of the former village, and since the mid-1950s, references to Panmunjom actually refer to the Joint Security Area itself. The weapons used to kill U.S. Army Capt. Bonifas and Lt. Barrett in the Axe Murder Incident of 1976 are housed within the Museum. The Museum is located about 1.9 kilometres north-east of Kijong-dong, often referred to as Propaganda Village.

Top Things to Do in North Korea

Things to do in north korea.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Demilitarized Zone

2. Tower of the Juche Idea

3. Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

4. Geumsusan Memorial Palace

5. Kim Il-sung Square

6. Mansudae Grand Monument

7. The State Circus

8. Kim Il Sung Stadium

9. Concrete Wall

10. Triumphal Arch

11. Masikryong Ski Resort

12. Tanjun Mausoleum

13. Rungrado May Day Stadium

14. Monument to the Korean Workers Party

15. Mount Kumgang

16. Daedong River (Taedong River)

17. Grand People's Study House

18. Munsu Water Park

19. Pyongyang Metro

20. Paektusan

21. Mansudae Art Studio Gallery

22. Koryo Museum

23. Koguryo Tombs

24. International Friendship Exhibition

25. Chollima Statue

26. Tomb of King Kongmin

27. Kaeson Youth Park

28. Kwangbok Department Store

29. Pohyonsa

30. Mount Myohyang

What travellers are saying.