KP
North Korea
North Korea, officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country in East Asia. It constitutes the northern half of the Korean Peninsula and borders China and Russia to the north at the Yalu (Amnok) and Tumen rivers, and South Korea (officially the Republic of Korea) to the south at the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The country's western border is formed by the Yellow Sea, while its eastern border is defined by the Sea of Japan. Pyongyang is the capital and largest city. The Korean Peninsula was first inhabited as early as the Lower Paleolithic period.
Photo: Christophe95 · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Capital
- Pyongyang
- Currency
- KPW
- Population
- 26,418,204
- Coordinates
- 40.0000, 127.0000
Traveler Guide
Travel & Tourism Guide for North Korea
North Korea (KP) is a distinctive destination home to approximately 26,418,204 residents, with its capital city of Pyongyang serving as the principal gateway for international arrivals, cultural institutions, and commerce at coordinates (40.00°, 127.00°), operating with KPW as the national currency.
Best Time to Visit & Climate
April to June & September to November (Spring & Autumn)
With a warm temperate climate at latitude 40.00°, North Korea shines in spring and autumn when daytime temperatures are mild and cultural sites are less crowded.
Key Traveler Essentials
- Currency: KPW
- Language: Official national language of North Korea; English spoken in major hotels and airports
- Emergency: 112 (Unified Emergency: Police, Ambulance & Fire)
- Power Plugs: Standard national power sockets (typically 220–240V; universal adapter recommended)
Top Attractions & Highlights
Historic Core & National Museums of Pyongyang
Pyongyang anchors North Korea's cultural landscape with national museums, civic monuments, and historic quarters.
Natural Reserves & Scenic Landscapes of North Korea
Beyond Pyongyang, regional parks and natural corridors showcase North Korea's topography, biodiversity, and outdoor trails.
Traditional Markets & Cultural Districts in Pyongyang
Experience everyday culinary traditions, regional produce, and local craftsmanship across Pyongyang's bustling markets.
Getting Around & Transport
International access to North Korea centers on gateway terminals serving Pyongyang, supported by intercity highway coaches, municipal public transport, metered taxis, and private car hire for regional travel.
- Pyongyang serves as the primary multimodal hub linking international flights with overland routes across North Korea.
- Licensed municipal taxis and regional ride-hailing services provide reliable door-to-door urban transit in Pyongyang.
- Renting a car or booking a private transfer offers the best flexibility for exploring countryside sights outside Pyongyang.
Essential Tips & Local Etiquette
Managing Expenses in KPW
The national currency is KPW. Carry sufficient local cash for markets and short transit rides alongside credit cards accepted at major hotels in Pyongyang.
Emergency Contacts & Safety
The official emergency dispatch in North Korea is 112 (Unified Emergency: Police, Ambulance & Fire). Save these numbers before arrival and keep identification accessible.
Local Etiquette & Time Zone
Observe respectful dress and photography etiquette at heritage sites, and align transit schedules with the local time zone (UTC).
Budget, Logistics & Entry Planning for North Korea
Daily Budget & KPW Currency Strategy
Official transactions across North Korea are conducted in KPW. Balance your travel budget between international bank cards for hotels and intercity transport and local KPW cash for municipal transit, markets, and daily dining in Pyongyang.
Gateway Arrival & Urban Infrastructure
North Korea has a population of approximately 26,418,204, with Pyongyang serving as the primary administrative and international aviation hub operating on the UTC time zone.
Safety Preparedness & Official Emergency Contacts
Store North Korea's verified emergency dispatch numbers (112 (Unified Emergency: Police, Ambulance & Fire)) in your phone prior to departure, and keep digital copies of your passport, entry documentation, and accommodation address in Pyongyang.
Seasonal Scheduling & Peak Booking Windows
Optimal weather conditions align with April to June & September to November (Spring & Autumn). When visiting North Korea during national holidays or peak seasonal windows, confirm accommodation and intercity transit reservations several weeks in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting North Korea
What is the official currency in North Korea and how should I plan payments?
The official currency of North Korea is KPW. Use the interactive currency converter on this page to benchmark daily costs against USD, EUR, GBP, and regional currencies, and carry local cash alongside bank cards.
What are the official emergency numbers in North Korea?
Verified emergency dispatch numbers in North Korea are: 112 (Unified Emergency: Police, Ambulance & Fire). These lines connect travelers to local police, medical ambulance, and fire rescue services.
When is the best time of year to visit North Korea and Pyongyang?
The most favorable travel window for North Korea is April to June & September to November (Spring & Autumn), when ambient temperatures and daylight hours best support sightseeing in Pyongyang and regional nature reserves.
How do travelers get between Pyongyang and regional cities in North Korea?
Pyongyang functions as the primary transport hub connecting regional cities via intercity highway coaches, rail corridors where available, private transfers, or domestic flights. Select any city guide below for specific airport and ground transit details.
Travel Essentials & Currency
Currency & Travel Essentials for North Korea
Quick currency calculator and emergency hotline guide for a hassle-free trip to North Korea.
Quick Currency Calculator
Official national currency is KPW. Calculate exchange conversions below:
* Exchange rates are indicative and subject to market rates and banking fees.
Emergency & Payment Tips
112 (Unified Emergency: Police, Ambulance & Fire)
(Police, Ambulance & Fire Rescue — toll-free 24/7 service)Payment & Banking Guidelines:
- 💳 Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, and digital wallets (Apple Pay) are widely accepted across hotels and retailers.
- 💵 Cash: Keep small cash bills handy for local souqs, small taxis, and casual tipping.
- 🏧 ATMs: ATMs are readily available throughout international airports, metro stations, and shopping malls.
