A Tiktoker’s forbidden journey: Behind North Korea's closed doors

North Korea is known for many stories. Escapees describe it as a country of propaganda, where the value of human life is negligible. The media focuses on both the country's citizens and its leader, Kim Jong Un. He is described as an impulsive tyrant who will do anything to subjugate his people. Death penalties for even the most minor offences are the norm in North Korea. It’s no wonder that the government of Kim Jong Un dictates everything in the country, from citizens' hairstyles to the music they listen to, even to the content that reaches Western media.

Many people, when asked about the country they would least like to visit, do not point to North Korea. The threat of prison for taking a bad photo or not following the rules of worshiping the Great Leader doesn't increase the desire to visit the country. However, some people take the risk. Few, however, decide to take the bold step of publishing photos or videos taken during the trip.

The TikTok user known as skinnhandske visited North Korea. His profile contains several videos and many photos showing life in Pyongyang, the country's capital. The materials depict ordinary people hurrying to work, chatting, and riding bicycles. The buildings, cars, and people look like time has stood still in the 1980s. However, there is no sign of the extreme poverty described in the media. Where is the catch?

Trips to North Korea are only possible as part of a tour organized by a travel agency with government approval. Most tourists choose one of two Chinese travel agencies: Koryo Tours or Young Pioneer Tours. Individual trips are rare. They usually happen by invitation of a North Korean diplomat. During a trip to North Korea, you only visit what the government wants to show, which is the capital, Pyongyang. The city is North Korea's showcase, so only this place can be shown to tourists. The real dramas related to poverty occur in the countryside, to which foreigners have no access.

What can’t be brought into North Korea? Books from South Korea, drugs, weapons, Bibles, and other holy books, and GPS transmitters. You can bring a mobile phone and a camera but without telephoto lenses.