North Korea

North Korea

North Korea, officially the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country located in East Asia, occupying the northern half of the Korean Peninsula. It is bordered by China and Russia to the north, South Korea to the south, the Yellow Sea to the west, and the Sea of Japan (East Sea) to the east.

North Korea covers an area of approximately 120,540 square kilometres and has an estimated population of around 26 million people as of 2025–2026. The country is known for its highly centralized political system, strict government control, and limited interaction with the outside world.

Key Country Information

  • Capital City: Pyongyang
  • Head of State & Government: Kim Jong Un
  • Official Language: Korean
  • Currency: North Korean Won (KPW)
  • International Dialing Code: +850

Population and Economy

North Korea has a population of approximately 26 million. Its economy is state-controlled, with most industries owned and operated by the government. Economic activity is limited by international sanctions and strict internal regulations.

Key sectors include agriculture, mining, military production, and basic manufacturing. Foreign trade is highly restricted, with China serving as North Korea’s primary trading partner.

International Memberships

  • United Nations (UN): Member since 1991
  • Non-Aligned Movement: Member
  • Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): Observer (limited engagement)

Living and Working in North Korea

Living and working conditions in North Korea are strictly regulated by the state. Employment is assigned by the government, and there is no open labor market. Foreign nationals are generally not permitted to work in the country except in very limited diplomatic, humanitarian, or specialized technical roles.

Foreign travel, residency, and business operations are heavily restricted, and all foreign visitors are subject to close monitoring. Work visas for non-diplomatic purposes are extremely rare.

Summary

North Korea is a highly centralized East Asian state with limited global engagement and a tightly controlled economy. While it is a member of the United Nations, international sanctions and internal policies significantly restrict foreign employment, migration, and economic cooperation.