North Korea: The Hermit Kingdom
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North Korea, officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia, set in the north of the Korean Peninsula. It is bordered by China and Russia to the north and South Korea to the south; the country is awash by the Sea of Japan in the east and the Yellow Sea in the west. North Korea's territory spans over 120,538 km² (46,540 sq mi), and the population (as of 2023) is 26,072,217 people.
North Korea is not the easiest country to visit because you are only allowed to travel via a travel company. Besides, you will be required to stay under surveillance by a local guide during your visit. Citizens of all states require a visa to enter, but US citizens are forbidden to enter North Korea at least until August 31, 2025.
Why is it interesting to visit North Korea? This country is a perfect example of a one-party socialistic republic under a totalitarian hereditary dictatorship. If you didn't have an opportunity to visit the USSR when it still existed, you might try travelling to North Korea to see a similar regime combined with an Asian charm and striking nature.
Most parts of the country are occupied by mountains and uplands, with the highest point being Paektu Mountain, with a height of 2,744 m (9,003 ft). The Rangrim Mountains and the Taebaek Range are famous for their breathtaking beauty. As for forests, they cover as much as 70% of the country's territory; North Korea ranks 28th in the world in terms of forest conditions.
Throughout the centuries, Korea has been influenced either by China or Japan; still, it has managed to preserve its unique identity, which is protected by the state despite strict ideology. The list of National Treasures of North Korea includes over 190 sites and objects of national significance, while the list of Cultural Assets (somewhat lesser significant artefacts) includes 1,800. Modern culture is entirely devoted to the aesthetic of socialist realism; thus, it is not very diverse, yet it is a rather curious concept to experience.