What common things are banned in North Korea?

North Korea maintains strict bans on foreign media (movies, music), outside news, religious materials, and unauthorized communication with the outside world, punishable by severe penalties including labor camps. Western fashion (blue jeans, piercings), specific hairstyles, and criticizing the leadership are also banned, with strict rules on photography.

What is not allowed in North Korea?

It's illegal to show disrespect or make jokes about North Korea, current or former leaders or their families. It's also illegal to talk to North Koreans without authorisation. Authorities may consider it spying if you do. Only shop at stores designated for foreigners.

How much is $1 in North Korea?

As of mid-January 2026, 1 US Dollar (USD) converts to approximately 900 North Korean Won (KPW), though the rate fluctuates slightly, with sources showing rates like 1 USD = 900.004 KPW or 900.006 KPW, reflecting mid-market figures used for informational purposes. 

Is Coca-Cola illegal in North Korea?

Yes, Coca-Cola is officially banned and unavailable in North Korea due to longstanding U.S. trade embargoes, but it often appears through black market channels or smuggled in by visitors, with recent reports even showing it in Pyongyang restaurants despite official prohibitions on American goods like denim and cigarettes. So, while you can't buy it legally from official stores, it's not entirely absent, just highly restricted and unofficial. 

Is TikTok allowed in North Korea?

TikTok is blocked in North Korea and cannot be accessed there because of the country's censorship.

Normal Things That Are Illegal in North Korea

Is there a McDonald's in North Korea?

No, North Korea does not have any official McDonald's restaurants due to political isolation and trade restrictions, but there have been discussions about potentially allowing Western franchises as part of diplomatic efforts, and locals might encounter similar local burger joints like Samtaesong. 

Can tourists drink in North Korea?

Beer is available to tourists without limitation. Mass-produced beer can be found everywhere in the country, and microbreweries are also common. North Koreans need to expend food coupons when buying beer, which will diminish their grain rations.

What can you buy in North Korea?

What's the best North Korean gift?

• Propaganda poster – Not a tour goes by where we don't pick up 3 or 4 of these hand crafted beauties. ...
• Flags/Pins/books – these make a great cheap and small gift for someone back home. ...
• Soju – Nothing beats the local rice wine.

What is the average salary in North Korea?

Average Wages

Official Salary: This is typically between 5,000 and 10,000 North Korean won (KPW) per month, which translates to roughly $1-3 USD based on black market exchange rates [source for North Korea average salary].

Can you buy North Korean won?

North Korean money can be obtained two ways. In Pyongyang you may visit the Kwangbok Department Store where you can exchange your foreign currency into new North Korean won currency and purchase items within the store. It is not possible to use this currency outside of the store.

How many kids can you have in North Korea?

According to one Korean American scholar who visited North Korea in the early 1980s, the country has no birth control policies; parents are encouraged to have as many as six children. The state provides tagaso (nurseries) to lessen the burden of childrearing for parents and offers a 77-day paid leave after childbirth.

Can gays get married in North Korea?

As of 2026, there is no North Korean law that recognizes same-sex marriage, civil unions or domestic partnerships. Additionally, Article 8 of the Family Law of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea states that "Marriage may be done only between one man and one woman".

Can you smoke in North Korea?

Tobacco smoking is popular in North Korea and culturally acceptable among men, but not for women. As of 2019, some 43.6% of men are reported to smoke daily, whilst in contrast only 4.5% of women smoke daily, with most of these being older women from rural areas.

Is pizza allowed in North Korea?

Since middle- and upper-class individuals are allowed to live in cities, Western-style restaurants have become popular in Pyongyang. Restaurants serve pizza with traditional toppings, as well as local varieties like kimchi pizza. All restaurants, including pizzerias, serve familiar dishes in North Korean cuisine.

Does North Korea have Coca Cola?

North Korea and Cuba are widely cited as the only two countries where Coca-Cola is not officially sold. In North Korea, strict state control and international sanctions prevent its availability, while in Cuba, long- standing trade restrictions historically limited official distribution.

What is the yellow rule in Korea?

On August 24, 2025, South Korea's National Assembly voted to approve amendments to the Trade Union and Labour Relations Adjustment Act (the “Act”), also known as the “Yellow Envelope Act.” The reform, long resisted by prior governments and business groups, expands the scope of who qualifies as an “employer,” broadens ...

How much is 1 month rent in Korea?

Monthly Cost of Living in South Korea for Indian Students

Seoul is the most expensive, while cities like Busan, Daegu, and Daejeon offer lower living costs. On average, an Indian student in South Korea spends ₩800,000–₩1.8M (₹50K–₹1.2L) per month on rent, food, transport, and other expenses.