A closely guarded capital with grand monuments and manicured parks. Few outsiders see this secretive city, home to the Kim dynasty and tightly controlled population.
Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, is a city with a distinct character. You'll find grand monuments like the Juche Tower and the Arch of Triumph, while Kim Il-sung Square hosts mass gatherings. The city's architecture is characterized by imposing Soviet-style buildings and wide boulevards. In Pyongyang, you can explore various museums, watch performances at theaters, and stroll through parks. The city's metro system, known for its deep stations, is decorated with elaborate mosaics and chandeliers.
Monumental Landmarks
Pyongyang's skyline is defined by imposing structures that reflect the city's character. The Juche Tower, standing at 170 meters tall, gives you panoramic views of the city. Built in 1982, it represents the national ideology of self-reliance. Nearby, you'll see the Arch of Triumph, modeled after but slightly taller than its Parisian counterpart, commemorating Korea's resistance to Japanese rule. The Ryugyong Hotel, a 105-story pyramid-shaped skyscraper, is an unmistakable part of the cityscape, though it remains unfinished and closed to the public.
Political Center
As the capital of North Korea, Pyongyang serves as the country's political hub. The city houses major government institutions and the headquarters of the Workers' Party of Korea. The so-called "Forbidden City," a restricted area in the heart of Pyongyang, is where many high-ranking officials live and work. Kim Il-sung Square, capable of holding hundreds of thousands of people, is the main venue for mass rallies and military parades, often broadcast worldwide.
Unique Transportation
Pyongyang's metro system is one of the deepest in the world. The stations are adorned with elaborate mosaics, marble pillars, and chandeliers. Above ground, you'll see trolleybuses and trams, which serve as primary means of public transportation for locals. The city is also the starting point for inter-regional highways and railways connecting to other parts of the country.
Culinary Scene
In Pyongyang, you can taste a variety of local dishes. The city is known for Pyongyang raengmyŏn, a cold buckwheat noodle soup that's particularly refreshing in summer. You can try Korean cuisine at restaurants like Okryu-gwan and Ch'ongryugwan. In recent years, international foods such as pizza, hamburgers, and coffee have become more readily available. You'll find street food stalls in certain areas, offering quick bites.
Cultural Venues
Pyongyang houses several theaters and performance spaces. You can watch operas, ballets, and other performances at the Pyongyang Grand Theatre and the East Pyongyang Grand Theatre. The Pyongyang Circus presents acrobatic displays and trained animal acts. For sports events, you can visit the Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, which has the largest seating capacity in the world.
Parks and Recreation
Despite its urban setting, Pyongyang has numerous green spaces. Moranbong Park, located in the city center, is where locals relax and spend their leisure time. The park has walking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Along the Taedong River, which flows through the city, you'll find promenades and parks where residents gather, especially during warmer months.
Museums and Education
Pyongyang is home to several museums that present the country's history and achievements. You can visit the Korean Revolution Museum, located behind the grand bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il on Mansu Hill, which houses exhibits on the country's revolutionary struggle. The city is also the location of Kim Il-sung University, North Korea's most prominent institution of higher education.
