ADVERTISEMENT

10 normal things that are banned in North Korea

The government controls everything, keeping people apart and on a tight leash.

These things are banned in North Korea [LinkedIn]

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country shrouded in secrecy.

Run by the Kim family for generations, the government maintains strict control over its citizens' lives. This control extends to many aspects of everyday life, with even seemingly harmless activities being banned or heavily restricted.

Here are ten such examples and the reasons behind these restrictions:

ADVERTISEMENT

Imagine a world without Google, social media, or even online news. In North Korea, access to the global internet is tightly controlled by the government. Citizens have access to a heavily censored internal network, but connecting to the outside world is strictly prohibited. The government fears the spread of information that might challenge its authority.

Korea maintains a tense relationship with its southern neighbour, South Korea. As a result, all forms of South Korean media, including movies, music, and TV shows, are banned. The government worries that exposure to South Korean culture could weaken its control and spark ideas of unification.

ADVERTISEMENT

North Koreans don't have the freedom to travel freely within their own country, let alone abroad. Internal movement is restricted, and citizens need permits to travel between cities. Leaving the country is nearly impossible for ordinary citizens. The government fears defection and the spread of information about life outside North Korea.

While North Korea officially allows for freedom of religion, in reality, it's heavily restricted. The government promotes a personality cult around the Kim family, and citizens are expected to show absolute loyalty. Religious practices that could compete with this loyalty are discouraged or even banned.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mobile phone use is increasing in North Korea, but it's heavily monitored. Phones typically only allow calls and texts within the country's internal network. Accessing foreign content or making international calls is strictly prohibited.

North Korea has strict regulations on appearance. Men's haircuts are limited to a few approved styles, and dyed hair is forbidden. Women's clothing is expected to be modest and knee-length. These restrictions aim to promote social conformity and discourage individuality.

ADVERTISEMENT

While North Koreans do smile, there are times when public displays of happiness are discouraged, particularly during periods of mourning or hardship. Images of past leaders are treated with utmost reverence, and sombre expressions are expected during visits to memorials. However, during celebrations and official events, enthusiastic smiles are encouraged.

Jeans and other Western clothing styles are often associated with American culture, which the North Korean government demonises. While some Western styles might be tolerated in major cities, wearing them can attract unwanted attention from authorities, especially outside of urban areas.

ADVERTISEMENT

The North Korean economy is centrally controlled by the government. Private businesses are largely banned, and most citizens work for state-owned enterprises. This limits economic opportunities and discourages individual initiative.

The most serious offence on this list is any criticism of the government or the Kim family. North Koreans are expected to show absolute loyalty to their leaders. Even a whisper of dissent can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment in labour camps for the offender and their extended family.

Punishments for violating these restrictions can vary depending on the severity of the offence. Minor infractions might result in fines or public humiliation. More serious offences, such as watching South Korean media or attempting to flee the country, can lead to imprisonment in harsh labour camps, or even execution.

ADVERTISEMENT

The North Korean government justifies these restrictions as being necessary to maintain national security and social order. They fear the spread of information that could challenge their authority or lead to calls for reform. However, these restrictions severely limit the freedoms of North Korean citizens and paint a picture of a country where basic human rights are not respected.

This content was created with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer.

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

How invisalign and other modern orthodontics are changing the game

How invisalign and other modern orthodontics are changing the game

These countries’ citizens aren't allowed to leave the country

These countries’ citizens aren't allowed to leave the country

5 simple lifestyle changes to improve men’s longevity

5 simple lifestyle changes to improve men’s longevity

Why people with mouth odour can’t smell their own bad breath

Why people with mouth odour can’t smell their own bad breath

How profitable is the new wave of streaming for Nigerian TikTokers? [Exclusive]

How profitable is the new wave of streaming for Nigerian TikTokers? [Exclusive]

Did you know you can get a passport for your pet?

Did you know you can get a passport for your pet?

Arla Foods Nigeria shines at 2024 BrandCom Awards with 4 major wins!

Arla Foods Nigeria shines at 2024 BrandCom Awards with 4 major wins!

Here's why it's dangerous to use a car charger to charge your phone

Here's why it's dangerous to use a car charger to charge your phone

7 strangest wedding traditions you didn’t know exists

7 strangest wedding traditions you didn’t know exists

Capture Your Own Story for #TFAA18: How Infinix ZERO Flip Takes #GRWM to Next Level

Capture Your Own Story for #TFAA18: How Infinix ZERO Flip Takes #GRWM to Next Level

Here’s the most expensive city to live in Africa

Here’s the most expensive city to live in Africa

Why is the number 666 considered evil and unlucky?

Why is the number 666 considered evil and unlucky?

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT