Pyongyang
Country: North Korea
Region: Asia
Period: 1948-present
Location: 39.016667°N, 125.7475°E
Description
Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, is a city characterized by grand monuments, vast boulevards, and a unique architectural aesthetic shaped by Juche ideology. Located on the banks of the Taedong River, it is the political, cultural, and economic heart of the nation. Despite its restricted access to foreigners, Pyongyang presents a curated image of North Korean identity through massive public squares, striking modernist buildings, and well-manicured public spaces. It offers an unusual and tightly controlled tourism experience unlike any other.
Modern Remains
Tourists visiting Pyongyang are shown a variety of striking landmarks, including the Juche Tower, which symbolizes the state ideology, and the Arch of Triumph, taller than its Parisian counterpart and commemorating Korea's liberation from Japanese occupation. The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the mausoleum of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, is among the most sacred sites in the country. The Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum and the USS Pueblo exhibit offer the regime’s perspective on the Korean War. The Ryugyong Hotel, an unfinished pyramid-shaped skyscraper, dominates the skyline. With tightly guided tours, visitors experience a mix of historical narrative, monumental architecture, and a glimpse into the most secluded capital in the world.