Need help?

UK Customer Services0330 880 3600*

Open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6pm, Saturday 8:30am to 4pm and closed Sundays.

*Calls are recorded for training and quality purposes.

Go back to:
All Country Guides

Other Guides

North Korea

Please note that if the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office have advised against all (or all but essential travel) to your destination, we cannot provide cover.
Click here to visit the FCDO's Foreign Travel Advice webpage.

Intro
Geography
Travel
Embassies & Visas
Currency
Health

Quick Facts

Official name: Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)
Capital city: Pyongyang
Languages spoken: Korean
Population: Around 26 million
Currency: North Korean won (KPW)
Time zone: GMT+9
Driving side: Right
Climate: Cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers, with brief spring and autumn seasons in between

North Korea is one of the most secretive and tightly controlled countries in the world. Visitors encounter a nation shaped by political isolation, a powerful state ideology, and strict regulations that govern nearly all aspects of daily life. Most travel is highly restricted and tightly monitored, with itineraries typically organised through state-approved tour operators.

The political and security situation remains tense, with the country heavily militarised and subject to international sanctions. Travellers face significant risks, including arbitrary detention, and consular support is limited. Always check the latest FCDO guidance before considering any trip to North Korea.

North Korea shares borders with China, Russia, and South Korea, and has a long coastline along the Sea of Japan (East Sea) and the Yellow Sea. Its terrain is largely mountainous, with the highest point being Mount Paektu at 2,744 metres. Fertile plains are concentrated in the southwest, where much of the country’s agriculture is located.

International flights to Pyongyang are limited, with services mainly from Beijing, Shenyang, and Vladivostok. Independent travel is not possible; visitors must be part of an organised tour and accompanied by government guides at all times. Internal transport is restricted, and movement outside approved areas requires prior authorisation.

A visa is required for all travellers to North Korea and must be arranged in advance, usually through an approved tour operator. The UK has no embassy in Pyongyang, with assistance provided instead by the Swedish Embassy, which represents UK interests.

The North Korean won (KPW) is the official currency, but foreign visitors are often expected to use euros, US dollars, or Chinese yuan. ATMs and credit cards are not accepted, and all transactions are cash-based. Shopping is limited to state-approved outlets catering to foreigners.

Healthcare in North Korea is extremely limited and does not meet international standards. Facilities are poorly equipped, and supplies of medicine and trained staff are scarce. Any serious illness or injury will likely require evacuation, though this may be difficult to arrange at short notice. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is essential. Food and water hygiene standards are poor, so visitors should stick to bottled water and avoid uncooked foods.

Go back to: All Country Guides

North Korea

Quick Facts

Go back to:
All Country Guides