Beyond the Bamboo Curtain: 7 Shocking Secrets of North Korea

North Korea is counted in the list of countries that have some of the most strict and oppressive governments in the world. Spread over 46,540 square miles of land, North Korea is ruled by the authoritarian regime of Kim Jong-un.

The country has a population of approximately 27 million people. The government is known for its isolation from the international community and severe restrictions on freedom of speech and movement.

Many North Koreans try to flee the country in search of better opportunities and freedom, often risking their lives in the process.

Want to know more about the daily life in North Korea? Here are some of the eye-opening and astonishing facts about North Korea that will leave you speechless.

Unbelievable Facts About North Korea

Here are some surprising truths about North Korea that will leave you in awe.

1) Work Schedule = 7 Days a week

The North Koreans work for seven days a week. They work for an average of 8 hours, which translates to 56 hours of work per week. Reports indicate that many men work from 7 AM to as late as 8 PM, effectively working about 13 hours a day. Whereas women typically work between 6 to 8 hours a day, depending on their job and industry.

2) Siren System

Just imagine the sound of the siren telling you what to do, when to eat, where to go, and how to spend your time. It's kind of a dystopian nightmare come to life, with no freedom or autonomy to make your own choices. 

In North Korea, the siren system plays a crucial role in regulating daily life and maintaining order among its citizens. Sirens sound at specific times throughout the day—at 7:00 AM, noon, and midnight—serving as signals for when people should begin their work, take meal breaks, or go to sleep. 

This structured approach ensures that the population follows a government-mandated schedule, demonstrating the regime's control over even the most mundane aspects of life.

3) Minimal Makeup Standards

If you are a K-drama fan and have watched Crash Landing On You, then you must be aware of the scene where the North Korean women bought South Korean makeup products from the black market. The make-up is highly regulated by the North Korean government.

The government has imposed a ban on red lipstick, viewing it as a symbol of capitalism rather than communism. Heavy makeup is generally frowned upon as it is associated with Western influence. 

Women are encouraged to wear minimal makeup. While colourful makeup is rare, eyeliner and mascara are more commonly used, although bright colours are generally avoided due to social stigma. 

The most recognised cosmetics brand in North Korea is "Bomhyanggi," or "Spring Fragrance," produced by Sinuiju Cosmetics. Other brands include "Unhasu" and "Mt. Geumgang." 

4) Black Market to Trade Goods

In North Korea, many common citizens are deprived of many necessities, such as food, shelter, electricity, and more. 

Therefore, due to food shortages and inadequate state provisions, many North Koreans rely on black markets for essential items such as food, clothing, and household goods. It is estimated that these markets account for up to 80% of family income for many households.

In North Korea, these markets are referred to as "jangmadang," where goods are bought and sold, often outside state control. Additionally, women have been more active in these markets since men are often employed in state-run industries.

You can buy a wide range of products, including:

• Food items: Rice, vegetables, and other staples that are often unavailable through state rations.
• Clothing: Imported or second-hand garments, often from South Korea or China.
• Luxury goods: Items like cosmetics and electronics that are otherwise restricted.

5) No Access to Independent Media

We all surf the internet to search for many things. Some search for bizarre things, while others search for valuable information. In North Korea, the government has an absolute monopoly on all media, including newspapers, television, and radio. All content is state-controlled and heavily censored to ensure it aligns with the regime's ideology.

Citizens are prohibited from using phones, computers, or any media devices that can access foreign content. Possession of foreign media, especially South Korean films or music, is particularly harshly punished.

There are no independent media outlets allowed in North Korea. All journalists must be members of the ruling Workers' Party and adhere to strict guidelines that promote propaganda rather than factual reporting. 

Accessing or distributing unsanctioned media is considered "anti-socialist behaviour" and can lead to severe punishments, including imprisonment, forced labour, or even execution.

Additionally, the government actively jams foreign radio and television signals to prevent citizens from accessing external information. This includes blocking Chinese mobile phone services near the border.

6) Identity Cards For Every Citizen

Just like we all had ID cards in school or college to access certain areas or services, similarly, every North Korean citizen is required to possess an identity card, which is essential for interacting with government entities and for travel within the country.

In 2019, North Korea began issuing new national ID cards that are made of plastic and contain an electronic chip, replacing older laminated paper versions. The new cards include personal information such as name, date of birth, gender, marital status, blood type, and nationality.

The issuance of these new ID cards is aimed at tracking defectors and controlling the movement of citizens within the country. The electronic chip allows for easier monitoring and surveillance by the government. The authorities aim to maintain an accurate count of residents and identify those who may have fled the country.

However, there is a disparity in access to these new ID cards since urban areas like Pyongyang receive them first, while rural residents often lag due to logistical challenges.

7) Limited Number of State-approved Hair Styles

Everything in North Korea is eccentric, including accessories and clothing. For instance, there are only 28 state-approved hairstyles for North Koreans—14 for women and 14 for men. This regulation is part of the government's efforts to maintain control over personal appearance and promote a uniform image among citizens.

In North Korea, men are typically required to keep their hair short, with lengths not exceeding 5 cm (about 2 inches). Older men may be allowed slightly longer hair, up to 7 cm (about 3 inches). 

Whereas, women have more options but are still expected to adhere to conservative styles. Married women are often instructed to keep their hair short, while unmarried women can wear longer styles, including curls.

The government has always tried to promote these strict grooming standards through mass media campaigns, portraying them as aligned with socialist values. A television program titled "Let's Trim Our Hair in Accordance with the Socialist Lifestyle" aired in the early 2000s to reinforce these standards.

Things You Won't Believe About North Korea's Daily Life

1. All North Korean men are required to serve in the military for about 10 years, while women serve for about 5 years. 
2. North Korea operates under a "three-generation punishment" system, where if one family member commits a crime or defected, their entire family—including extended relatives—can face imprisonment or forced labour.
3. Some cities, like Pyongyang, are designed to showcase an idealised version of North Korean life to foreign visitors.
4. While healthcare is free, it is often inadequate due to poor infrastructure and a lack of resources.
5. Major holidays include Kim Il-sung's birthday (April 15) and Kim Jong-il's birthday (February 16), both celebrated with grand parades.
6. The official language is Korean, with a unique dialect spoken in the North.
7. North Korea has conducted multiple nuclear tests since 2006, leading to international sanctions and tensions.
8. China is North Korea's largest trading partner and provides significant economic support.
9. Over 34,000 North Koreans have defected to South Korea since the end of the Korean War, many citing human rights abuses as their reason for leaving.
10. North Korea has its own time zone called "Pyongyang Time," which is 30 minutes behind South Korea and Japan.
11. Only a small elite has access to the internet; most citizens use a domestic intranet that filters content heavily.
12. Weddings typically occur at home unless the couple is wealthy enough to rent a venue. Newlyweds must bring their wedding flowers to the statues of the Kim leaders for a photo opportunity.
13. Birthdays are celebrated, but there are no festivities allowed on July 8 and July 17, the anniversaries of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il's deaths, respectively.
14. A thriving black market exists, where citizens trade goods often using foreign currency like U.S. dollars.
15. Every household has a government-controlled radio that cannot be turned off, ensuring constant exposure to state propaganda.

Conclusion

While North Korea may face challenges in terms of political and social freedoms, its natural beauty is undeniable. The country boasts breathtaking landscapes, from lush mountains and pristine beaches to unique wildlife. For adventurous travellers seeking to explore a truly distinctive destination, North Korea offers a captivating experience.