North Korea Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

North Korea, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, State of East Asia; 120 540 km², 25.5 million residents (2019).North Korea lies between the Yellow Sea to the west and the Japanese Sea to the east. It occupies about 55 percent of the Korean Peninsula and is separated from South Korea by a 4 km wide demilitarized zone. In the north, the highest parts of the Changbai Mountains, the Yalu River and the Tumen River form a natural border with China, and along lower Tumen, North Korea has a short border with the Russian Federation in the northeast. The capital is Pyongyang (3.4 million residents, 2012).

Country facts

Choson Minjujuni Inmin Konghwaguk / Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
Country abbreviation: KP
Area: 120 540 km²
Population (2019): 25.5 million residents
Capital: Pyongyang
Main language: Korean
State: Republic
Head of State: Kim Jong Un
Head of Government: Pak Pong Ju
GDP per capita: no data available
GNI percapita: no information available
Currency unit: 1 North Korean won = 100 chon
Currency code: KPW
Country number (telephony): 850
Internet domain name: kp
Time difference compared to Sweden: +7.5
National Day: September 9 (Proclamation of the Republic, 1948)

Nature

Land use: forest (61%), agricultural land (17%), other (22%)
Highest mountain: Paektusan (2,744 m above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 211 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.5%; birth rate 14 ‰, death rate 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (20%), 15-64 (70%), 65- (10%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 68 years, women 76 years
Infant mortality (2019): 12 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 27 million residents
HDI: no data available
Urbanization rate (2019): 62%
Most populous cities (2012): Pyongyang (3.4 million residents), Hamhung – Hungnam (966,600)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (22%), industry (48%), service (30%)
Exports (2017): US $ 4,582 million
Main export products: iron, steel, textiles
Main exporting countries: China
Imports (2017): US $ 4 375 million
Main import products: oil, coal, means of transport
Main importing countries: China
Railway network (2014): 7,400 km

Geography of North Korea

Location and Borders

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is located in East Asia, occupying the northern part of the Korean Peninsula. It shares borders with China to the northwest, Russia to the northeast, and South Korea to the south. To the east, it has a coastline along the Sea of Japan (East Sea), and to the west, it faces the Yellow Sea. The country is strategically located in proximity to both China and Russia, and it shares a heavily fortified border with South Korea, known as the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a highly sensitive area that separates the two Koreas.

The terrain of North Korea is mountainous, with the majority of its land area covered by rugged, forested mountains. The highest point is Mount Paektu, an active volcano on the border with China, which holds both cultural and historical significance. Despite its mountainous nature, North Korea also has fertile plains, particularly in the west, which are used for agriculture.

Terrain and Landscape

North Korea’s landscape is dominated by mountains, which make up about 80% of the country’s total area. These mountains are part of the larger ranges of the Korean Peninsula, such as the Hamgyong and the Taebaek mountains. The rugged terrain contributes to the isolation of many regions, and historically, the mountains have acted as natural barriers to both trade and communication.

The western coastal plains, particularly along the Yellow Sea, provide fertile agricultural land. These plains are home to the majority of North Korea’s population and serve as the country’s primary agricultural area, especially for rice cultivation. The fertile lands along the Amnok (Yalu) and Tumen rivers, which form parts of the border with China and Russia, are also important regions for agriculture.

In contrast, the eastern coastline, bordering the Sea of Japan, features more rugged terrain with steep cliffs and fewer agricultural areas. Despite this, the country is blessed with numerous rivers, which, in addition to providing water for agriculture, also support the generation of hydroelectric power.

Natural Resources

North Korea is rich in natural resources, especially in terms of minerals and energy reserves. The country has large deposits of coal, iron ore, limestone, and gold. The mining industry plays a significant role in North Korea’s economy, although it is heavily controlled by the government and often lacks modern technology for extraction and processing. North Korea’s coal resources are among the largest in the world, and the country also possesses significant reserves of rare earth elements, which are increasingly in demand for the production of electronics and other high-tech goods.

In addition to its mineral wealth, North Korea has a variety of other natural resources, including timber, fisheries, and arable land. Despite its substantial natural wealth, however, economic underdevelopment and political isolation have prevented North Korea from fully capitalizing on these resources.

Climate of North Korea

General Climate Zones

North Korea experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold winters, hot summers, and distinct seasonal changes. The country has four distinct seasons: a long, cold winter; a warm, humid summer; a mild spring; and a cool autumn. The climate varies slightly depending on the region, with the eastern coastal areas experiencing slightly milder winters and the mountainous interior being colder.

Winter: Winters in North Korea are harsh, particularly in the inland and northern regions. Average temperatures can fall below -20°C (-4°F) in the northern mountains, while the capital city, Pyongyang, experiences winter temperatures around -10°C (14°F). The country also experiences significant snowfall, especially in the higher elevations.
Summer: Summer temperatures in North Korea can rise to 30°C (86°F) in the plains and lowlands, particularly during the months of July and August. The summer season also brings monsoon rains, especially in the southern and western regions, which can lead to flooding and landslides, damaging infrastructure and crops.
Autumn and Spring: The transition between summer and winter is marked by mild autumns and spring seasons. Temperatures in these seasons range between 5°C (41°F) and 20°C (68°F), with a relatively dry climate. These seasons are crucial for agriculture, as they allow for the growth of a variety of crops.

Temperature and Weather Patterns

North Korea’s weather is heavily influenced by its geographic location in the continental climate zone. The country experiences long, cold winters with dry, chilly winds from Siberia, which affect the northeastern and inland areas. The summer months, on the other hand, are characterized by monsoon rains that sweep in from the southeast, bringing heavy downpours to the region. These rains are vital for agriculture but can also lead to challenges such as flooding and soil erosion.

In general, the coastal regions of North Korea tend to be somewhat milder than the inland areas due to the moderating effect of the surrounding seas. Coastal areas experience less extreme winter temperatures and receive more precipitation, which can support local agriculture and fisheries.

Environmental Issues

North Korea faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and the impacts of climate change. Deforestation has been a significant issue due to the overharvesting of timber for fuel and construction, as well as agricultural expansion. Soil erosion is also common, especially in the mountainous regions, where the lack of tree cover leads to the loss of fertile soil.

The country’s heavy reliance on coal for energy, coupled with the lack of modern infrastructure, has led to significant air and water pollution, particularly in urban areas. Additionally, North Korea is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including more frequent and severe flooding, which threatens both the environment and food security.

People of North Korea

Ethnic Composition

The population of North Korea is overwhelmingly ethnically homogeneous, with nearly 99% of the population identifying as ethnic Koreans. The majority of North Koreans share a common cultural and historical identity that traces back to the ancient kingdoms of Korea. There are no significant indigenous or foreign ethnic minorities in North Korea, though there are some small communities of Chinese and Russian descent, mostly in border areas.

Over the centuries, North Korea’s cultural and ethnic identity has been shaped by its long history of Confucian influence, dynastic rule, and close ties to China. Ethnic and cultural diversity in North Korea is limited, and the regime has emphasized unity and nationalism as core principles.

Language and Religion

The official language of North Korea is Korean, which is written in the Hangul script. The dialect spoken in North Korea differs slightly from that in South Korea, but both are mutually intelligible. The government of North Korea places a strong emphasis on the use of the Korean language as a unifying force, and it promotes the use of “Choson” terminology to refer to the country and its people.

Religion in North Korea is officially restricted. The government promotes a state-sponsored ideology known as Juche, a form of Korean nationalism created by Kim Il-sung, the founding leader of North Korea. Juche, which emphasizes self-reliance and devotion to the state and its leaders, is considered a quasi-religious belief system. While freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed, in practice, religious activity is highly suppressed, and religious organizations are closely monitored and controlled by the state.

Christianity, Buddhism, and other faiths are officially prohibited, though small underground Christian communities are believed to exist. North Korea’s religious practices are largely centered around the personality cult of the Kim family, with state-sanctioned rituals and ceremonies paying homage to the country’s leaders.

Population and Demographics

North Korea’s population is estimated to be around 25 million people, with the vast majority living in rural areas. The capital city, Pyongyang, is the largest city and serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of the country. Other major cities include Hamhung, Chongjin, and Wonsan, which are centers for industry and trade.

The population of North Korea is relatively young, with a significant proportion under the age of 30. The country’s population has been impacted by both historical events, such as the Korean War, and contemporary issues, including limited healthcare access and emigration. There are reports of a high rate of malnutrition and health problems due to food scarcity and economic difficulties. Despite these challenges, the government of North Korea emphasizes health and education as part of its state agenda.

Economy of North Korea

Centralized Economy

North Korea has a command economy, where the state owns and controls nearly all aspects of economic production and distribution. The government controls industry, agriculture, and services, and it directs resources according to its own priorities rather than responding to market demands. This system has contributed to inefficiency, stagnation, and a lack of consumer goods for the population.

The country’s economy is largely dependent on state-run enterprises, which are tasked with fulfilling the needs of the government and the military. North Korea’s industrial base is focused on sectors such as heavy industry, mining, and manufacturing, particularly in coal, steel, and machinery production.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture remains an essential part of the North Korean economy, but its growth is hindered by natural disasters, limited arable land, and outdated agricultural techniques. The majority of North Korea’s agricultural land is concentrated in the western part of the country, where rice, maize, and barley are cultivated. The government places a strong emphasis on rice production, although crop failures due to floods and droughts have been recurrent challenges.

The country also has substantial natural resources, including minerals, coal, and rare earth elements, which are mined and exported, primarily to China. Despite these resources, North Korea’s economy has struggled to fully develop these industries due to international sanctions, lack of foreign investment, and the inefficiencies inherent in its state-run economic model.

International Trade and Sanctions

North Korea’s economy has been deeply affected by international sanctions, which were imposed due to its nuclear weapons program and human rights abuses. These sanctions have severely limited the country’s ability to engage in international trade and access foreign capital, technology, and goods. As a result, North Korea relies heavily on trade with China, which is its primary economic partner, accounting for over 90% of the country’s trade. Smuggling and informal trade across borders with China and Russia also contribute to the economy, though this trade remains difficult to quantify due to its clandestine nature.

In recent years, North Korea has made efforts to develop its domestic economy, including attempts to expand light industry, agriculture, and tourism. However, these efforts have been limited by the country’s political isolation and the need for foreign investment and technology that are not available under the current international sanctions regime.

Economic Challenges

North Korea’s economy faces numerous challenges, including chronic food shortages, poor infrastructure, and an underdeveloped industrial base. Economic growth is often constrained by political and military priorities, which prioritize the development of the country’s nuclear program and military capabilities over the welfare of the population.

The lack of access to international markets, coupled with a poorly developed domestic market, means that North Korea remains heavily dependent on aid, particularly from China. Despite these challenges, the regime has pursued modest reforms in recent years, such as allowing limited market activity and private ownership in certain sectors. These reforms, however, have been inconsistent and are closely controlled by the state.

Government of North Korea

Political Structure

North Korea is a one-party state governed by the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK), with the Supreme Leader at the top of the political hierarchy. The country’s political system is a reflection of the leadership of the Kim family, which has maintained a dynastic rule since the founding of the state in 1948. The leader of North Korea is not only the head of state and government but also the supreme military commander, which ensures the centralization of power in the hands of the leader.

The political structure is heavily influenced by the ideology of Juche, which emphasizes self-reliance and loyalty to the state and its leaders. While the constitution nominally provides for a form of representative government, the reality is that all major political decisions are made by the Supreme Leader, who is supported by a small group of elite party officials and military officers.

The Workers’ Party of Korea dominates all aspects of the political system, and elections are held only within the framework of the party’s control. These elections, however, are often symbolic, with candidates pre-selected by the government.

History of Governance

North Korea was established in 1948 following the division of Korea after World War II. Kim Il-sung, the country’s first leader, led the country until his death in 1994. Kim Il-sung was the architect of the state’s system of government and ideology, which centered around the personality cult of the Kim family and absolute loyalty to the leader. His leadership was characterized by both the consolidation of power and intense repression of opposition.

Following Kim Il-sung’s death, his son Kim Jong-il took control of the country, continuing the dynastic leadership and consolidating the system of hereditary rule. Kim Jong-il oversaw the country’s nuclear weapons program and maintained strict control over the political and military apparatus. After Kim Jong-il’s death in 2011, his son Kim Jong-un assumed leadership, continuing his family’s reign and further developing North Korea’s nuclear capabilities.

Recent Political Landscape

Under Kim Jong-un, North Korea has seen a continuation of the policies of his father and grandfather, but with some changes in approach, particularly regarding international relations. Kim Jong-un has focused on strengthening the country’s nuclear deterrence while engaging in high-profile diplomacy, including summits with U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in. Despite these efforts, North Korea remains heavily isolated from the international community, with human rights violations and its nuclear weapons program being major points of contention.

North Korea’s political system remains highly centralized, and the leadership has maintained strict control over the population, using surveillance, propaganda, and a pervasive security apparatus to maintain its grip on power. Despite occasional signs of economic reform and openness, the country’s political landscape remains rigid and authoritarian, with no meaningful political opposition allowed.

Culture of North Korea

Traditional Arts and Crafts

North Korea has a rich cultural heritage, though its traditional arts and crafts are largely influenced by state control and the personality cult of the Kim family. Traditional Korean music, dance, and performance arts remain central to cultural life, but they are heavily politicized, often used to promote loyalty to the regime and its leaders. The art forms in North Korea are closely regulated by the government, and works of art are expected to conform to the principles of socialist realism, portraying idealized depictions of the people and the leadership.

Crafts such as embroidery, pottery, and painting remain important in North Korea, with traditional forms often depicting revolutionary themes or honoring the leadership. Kim Jong-un’s regime has continued the tradition of glorifying the Kim family through art, with portraits of the family members often seen in public spaces.

Music and Dance

North Korea’s musical traditions are deeply tied to its political ideology. The country’s musical culture emphasizes songs of revolution and patriotism, with many works praising the Kim family and the achievements of the state. The government sponsors performances of traditional Korean music and modern revolutionary songs at mass rallies and in state-sponsored events. The mass games, which involve thousands of performers, are a particularly important form of artistic expression, showcasing the country’s ability to mobilize large numbers of people for synchronized performances.

Dance and performance arts in North Korea are often used to convey messages of loyalty to the regime. Traditional Korean dances are still performed, but these, too, often carry political themes and are seen as a way to express support for the leadership.

Cuisine and Traditions

North Korean cuisine is similar to that of South Korea but is often simpler and influenced by the availability of ingredients. Common dishes include kimchi (fermented vegetables, often with cabbage), naengmyeon (cold noodles), and bibimbap (rice with assorted vegetables and meat). Food in North Korea is often prepared using local ingredients, and the government promotes self-reliance in food production, particularly in the context of agricultural policies.

Traditions in North Korea are closely tied to the regime and the Juche ideology. Family and community gatherings often include celebrations of the country’s victories and the birthday of the leader. Festivals, such as the Day of the Sun (April 15), which celebrates Kim Il-sung’s birthday, are marked by public performances, fireworks, and displays of loyalty to the leadership.

Festivals and Holidays

Public holidays in North Korea are primarily centered around the Kim family and the state. The Day of the Sun, commemorating Kim Il-sung’s birth, is the most significant holiday and is marked by elaborate celebrations. The country also celebrates the Day of the Shining Star, honoring Kim Jong-il’s birthday, as well as events like the Workers’ Party Foundation Day and the founding of the DPRK. These holidays are used to reinforce the personality cult of the Kim family and to display national unity.

Other cultural festivals and events include the Arirang Mass Games, which combine gymnastics, dance, and music in large-scale performances that celebrate the nation’s achievements. These events often serve as both a form of national pride and a method of promoting political messages and ideology.

History of North Korea

Early History and Japanese Occupation

Korea has a long and rich history, but North Korea’s modern history begins with its division after the end of World War II. Korea had been under Japanese rule from 1910 to 1945, and the end of the war saw the country divided into two occupation zones by the Allied powers. The Soviet Union controlled the northern zone, while the United States controlled the southern zone. This division set the stage for the eventual separation of North and South Korea into two distinct nations.

The Korean War and Division

In 1948, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) was established in the Soviet-controlled northern zone under Kim Il-sung, while the Republic of Korea (South Korea) was established in the American-controlled southern zone. Tensions between the two states quickly escalated, culminating in the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, when North Korean forces, backed by China and the Soviet Union, invaded South Korea.

The war resulted in heavy casualties and devastation, with the Korean Peninsula divided along the 38th parallel and the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) established as a buffer between the two countries. The war ended in 1953 with an armistice agreement, but no peace treaty was signed, leaving North and South Korea technically still at war. The Korean War solidified the division of the peninsula and laid the foundation for North Korea’s regime.

The Kim Dynasty and the Development of North Korea

Under Kim Il-sung, North Korea adopted a socialist, centralized economy and pursued policies of self-reliance known as Juche. The regime maintained a strong military presence and began the process of militarization, with an emphasis on nuclear weapons development in the later years of Kim Il-sung’s rule. Kim Il-sung’s death in 1994 marked a significant transition in leadership, with his son Kim Jong-il taking over the country.

Kim Jong-il continued his father’s policies and further isolated the country from the international community, building a formidable nuclear weapons program. The regime maintained strict control over the economy, political life, and the military, and it used extensive propaganda and surveillance to maintain its grip on power.

Recent History and Kim Jong-un’s Rule

Kim Jong-il’s death in 2011 brought his son Kim Jong-un to power. Kim Jong-un has continued his family’s policies, focusing on military development and maintaining a tight control over the country’s internal affairs. Under his leadership, North Korea has continued its pursuit of nuclear weapons and missile technology, leading to increasing tensions with the international community, especially the United States and South Korea.

Despite this, Kim Jong-un has made occasional efforts at diplomacy, particularly with South Korea and the United States. He has engaged in high-profile summits with leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in. However, these diplomatic efforts have yet to yield lasting peace or meaningful denuclearization.

North Korea’s history remains deeply intertwined with its political leadership, its militarization, and its commitment to self-reliance. The country’s future remains uncertain, with ongoing challenges related to economic development, international relations, and internal political stability.