Kim Jong-un’s endorsement? North Korea tourism is booming—but beware of these 7 major pitfalls!

For travel enthusiasts, visiting hard-to-reach hidden gems, experiencing different cultures, and meeting all kinds of people are some of the most precious aspects of travel. Though transportation has advanced and flying or taking cruises is now convenient, some countries remain less visited due to political or cultural factors—such as “North Korea.”

Though North Korea still gives off an air of mystery to the outside world, Taiwanese people are no strangers to the country’s leader, “Kim Jong-un.” From his marriage to the beautiful Ri Sol-ju, the execution of his own uncle Jang Song-thaek, to the

The renowned North Korean attraction "Mount Kumgang." (Provided by Dashizhixiang / Shutterstock)

● Mysterious North Korea Boasts Stunning Scenery; Travel Writers Organize Popular Tours

Though the mysterious country of North Korea, under the rule of the "Kim regime," imposes many restrictions on tourism, its breathtaking landscapes remain a favorite among many travelers. These include the historically significant "Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) along the 38th parallel," the revered Mount Kumgang—so admired by the literary master Su Dongpo that he wrote, 'I wish to be born in Goryeo to see Mount Kumgang'—as well as the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun (Kim Il-sung’s former residence), the Arch of Triumph, experiences like riding the Pyongyang Metro, visiting the Mansudae Grand Monument, and the Juche Tower.

Renowned travel writer 943 organized her first Facebook group trip, launching an August "5-Day North Korea Tour" that sold out in less than two days with over 20 participants. Having traveled to many countries around the world, 943 has long been curious about North Korea and wanted to see its famous sights firsthand, to find out if it is as mysterious as portrayed on TV, and to witness the reverence for its leaders. Concerned that future political instability in North Korea might lead to even tighter restrictions on the already limited tourism, she decided to organize the trip—and was amazed by how interested Taiwanese people were in visiting North Korea.

A cute North Korean girl dressed in traditional clothing. (Provided by Dashizhixiang / Shutterstock)

● 7 Major Pitfalls to Avoid When Traveling to North Korea

But if you really plan to visit North Korea, what are some important things to keep in mind? Recently, Yahoo News compiled a list of seven key points for travelers to North Korea for reference.

1. No Independent Travel Allowed; All Trips Must Be Group-Based

For travel enthusiasts, "independent travel" offers freedom and convenience—but North Korea strictly prohibits independent travel. All trips to North Korea must be arranged through tour agencies, which is the main reason 943 organized her group online. In fact, all aspects of a North Korea trip are "group-oriented." The itinerary includes not only natural scenery but also revolutionary sites related to the Kim regime, and each group is accompanied by two guides hired by the state-run tourism company who provide detailed commentary.

2. Don’t Say “North Korea”; Use “Korea” Instead

Taiwanese people commonly refer to it as "North Korea," but locals aren’t accustomed to this term. Although the English name is "North Korea," the country’s official full name is the "Democratic People’s Republic of Korea," and it does not recognize the southern "Republic of Korea" regime. If you need to communicate with locals, it’s best to refer to North Korea as "Korea" and South Korea as "South Korea"—but only if you can speak Korean.

Travelers in North Korea should never imitate the poses of leaders, make strange gestures, or joke about photos or portraits of the leaders. (Provided by Dashizhixiang / Shutterstock)

3. Respect Local Leaders; Do Not Imitate or Mock Them

On TV, you often see female news anchor Ri Chun-hee speaking with "extraordinary conviction," using emotionally charged language to describe enemy nations—yet when talking about the leader "Kim Jong-un," her tone turns into one of infinite adoration. It’s said that the entire country of North Korea holds deep reverence for the Kim family across three generations, and statues and portraits of former leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il can be seen everywhere on the streets. When traveling in North Korea, do not imitate the poses of leaders, make strange gestures, or joke about their photos or portraits—you risk not being allowed to leave the country.

4. Photography Restrictions Eased, But Avoid Taking Photos of the Military

In recent years, North Korea has relaxed some of its rules on what tourists can photograph. General street scenes and people are usually allowed. However, the military, soldiers, and weapons are still off-limits. Additionally, a few places such as airports and certain exhibition halls also prohibit photography.

Internet and communication services within North Korea are restricted, and upon arrival at the airport, customs officers will inspect the photos on travelers’ phones and tablets. (Provided by Dashizhixiang / Shutterstock)

5. Phones and Computers Are Allowed, But Check Before Entry

For modern travelers, snapping photos and immediately sharing them on Facebook or Instagram with friends is second nature. But in North Korea, you’ll have to hold back. Although restrictions on electronic devices have eased in recent years—phones, cameras, tablets, and laptops are now permitted—internet and communication services within North Korea are still limited. Upon arrival at the airport, customs officers will inspect the photos, apps, and even check whether your devices have GPS capabilities.

6. Tensions Remain; Avoid Using South Korean Products

Although the Korean Peninsula is divided by the "38th parallel," the two sides are separate countries and remain in a state of opposition. Incidents of North Korean artillery attacks on South Korea are still occasionally reported. Therefore, visitors to North Korea should avoid using South Korean products as much as possible.

7. Don’t Test the Law; Avoid Taking Political Items

North Korea’s political situation is sensitive and volatile—there are cases where university students have been sentenced to 15 years of hard labor and died as a result. Therefore, after traveling in North Korea, also avoid bringing back political items such as propaganda slogans, as doing so may prevent you from leaving the country and could even put you at risk of becoming the next American college student in trouble.