North Korea Limits: 10 Absolutely Normal Things You Can’t do There

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North Korea Limits: 10 Absolutely Normal Things You Can’t Do There

North Korea is a country with strict rules that greatly impact the daily activities of its citizens. Some common freedoms and activities that are usually taken for granted in many other countries are restricted or entirely forbidden there. This list explores ten normal things that one cannot do in North Korea, shedding light on how different life can be under such a regime.

1. Access the global Internet

In North Korea, the global Internet is not readily accessible to the general public. Instead, they have an internal network called Kwangmyong, which only allows access to state-approved content. This restriction prevents citizens from interacting with the outside world online, limiting their exposure to global news, cultures, and communities.

2. Wear blue jeans

Wearing blue jeans is generally discouraged in North Korea as it is seen as a symbol of American culture, which is frowned upon by the government. Instead, traditional and modest clothing, often reflecting the nation’s identity and government guidelines, is encouraged.

3. Make an international call

Making international calls is extremely restricted in North Korea. The government monitors and controls all forms of communication, including phone lines, making it very difficult for the average citizen to contact people outside of the country without going through official or sanctioned channels.

4. Practice religion freely

Religious freedom is highly restricted in North Korea. The state promotes a strict ideology where loyalty to the government and its leaders is paramount. Any form of religious activity must be approved by and often controlled by the state, leaving little room for personal spiritual practices.

5. Take photographs of poverty

Taking photographs that might portray the country in a negative light, such as images showing poverty or underdevelopment, is strictly forbidden. Tourists and journalists alike are often accompanied by guides who ensure that only government-approved images are captured.

6. Criticize the government

Criticizing the government or any of its leaders is considered a serious offense in North Korea. Such actions can lead to severe repercussions, including imprisonment or harsher penalties. The government maintains tight control over what can be publicly discussed or expressed.

7. Travel abroad freely

For most North Koreans, traveling abroad is a rare privilege and typically only possible for government officials or workers on official business. The general populace cannot freely leave the country, partly to prevent them from seeking asylum or settling in other countries.

8. Watch foreign films

Watching foreign films is generally prohibited, especially if they originate from Western countries or South Korea. The government views such films as potential threats that could introduce undesirable ideas about freedom and democracy.

9. Celebrate a birthday on July 8 and December 17

Celebrating a birthday on July 8 or December 17 is not allowed, as these dates are national mourning days for former leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. All festivities are set aside to honor the memory of these leaders.

10. Read foreign newspapers

Reading newspapers or any media from outside North Korea is generally forbidden. The state provides all necessary news through its controlled media, ensuring that the information aligns with governmental policies and propaganda.

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