10+ Things That Are Prohibited in North Korea

The world is growing increasingly interested in North Korea. Its leader and government continuously try to protect the nation from outside influences by, for example, not allowing certain hairstyles or clothes. All of this makes us want to know more about the people of North Korea and their lifestyle. We at Bright Side found things that are prohibited in North Korea for you to see for yourself.

Western fashion

North Korea made jeans and other types of Western clothes forbidden in the 2 regions bordering China. Pyongyang is trying to fight the influence of the Western style culture spilling over from its big neighbor.

Coca-Cola

A trade embargo on Coca-Cola imposed on North Korea makes it difficult to get a decent bottle of Coke there. However, it is reported that some upscale shops in Pyongyang sell Coke that is produced in China.

Hairstyles

North Korea allows only 18 haircuts for women and 15 for men. None of the hairstyles allow a change in hair color, so it can be really challenging to buy hair dye.

Sanitary pads

Sanitary pads and tampons are not available in North Korea. Women use the old-school reusable pads.

Property

The North Korean government exclusively owns the rights to land and property. This makes it virtually impossible to buy and sell houses or apartments. However, the people of North Korea have found ways to do it, which led to the easing of the laws this year.

Designer shoes

If you happen to be in North Korea and you’re thinking of buying a pair of Manolo Blahniks, you’ll be out of luck. Designer shoes are not available except in the regions bordering China, which may have Chinese-made high heels for sale.

Starbucks

If you want to drink coffee in Pyongyang, you should visit one of the famous cafés: Ryongwang Coffee Shop.

Cable TV

There are only 4 official TV channels available in the country. Censorship by the government is so strong that it does not allow any other type of television.

Western magazines

North Korea forbids all kinds of foreign media. The government and special agencies control and monitor what is printed in the press. There are no lifestyle magazines, and the only ones that a North Korean may read will be of an educational or political “juche” character.

Wi-Fi and international calls

Out of a population of 15 million, almost one million North Koreans own a cell phone. However, they may not make international calls. There are also restrictions on the usage of the 3G network. Foreigners entering the country may buy a pre-paid SIM card to make calls abroad only.

Music concert tickets

Very few foreigners are allowed to perform in North Korea. Thus, going to a concert of your favorite musician is out of the question. The only band that was allowed to perform was a Slovenian band called Laibach. They had a concert in Pyongyang back in 2015. Instead, people can attend local bands’ concerts.

Apple

There is a restriction on selling any type of modern high-tech device to North Korea. Buying an Apple iPad is not possible. However, North Korea had developed its own tablet PC that boasts of being a substitute for any Western ones.

Sports cars

Another luxury good that is almost 100% unavailable is a sports car. It is almost impossible to purchase an expensive sports car due to the sanctions from the United Nations and the European Union.

Vacations abroad

North Koreans are not allowed to go for vacations abroad. This is a violation of human rights, but the people of North Korea are probably unaware of this fact.