Rare glimpses: Daily life in North Korea captured by tourist
A tourist visited North Korea, capturing daily life snapshots of its residents. The photos depict people at markets, on their way to work and school, alongside beautiful landscapes and unique city architecture. This offers a rare glimpse into one of the world's most mysterious and closed-off countries.
North Korea, one of the most mysterious and isolated countries in the world, continues to fascinate and intrigue outsiders. Information about this country is sparse, and visiting it is nearly impossible for most people.
Known for its authoritarian regime, led by the Kim dynasty, which has ruled since the end of World War II, the country is characterized by international isolation, media control, and strict censorship.
One tourist managed to get in. The photos from the trip were posted on TikTok and have already been viewed by over 5 million people.
North Korea through the tourist's lens
Photos taken during the extraordinary journey depict authentic scenes of daily life in North Korea. We can see people at markets, selling and buying everyday items. Other photos show residents going to work and school, travelling by bike or on foot, often along wide, tree-lined streets.
Many of the photographs also captured moments of family and social life. People gathered for dinners, sharing meals in restaurants. These images show that, despite challenging conditions, life goes on usually, and people try to enjoy small moments of joy.
The photographs are snapshots of cities revealing North Korea's unique architecture and culture. Traditional buildings, well-maintained parks, and infrastructure elements create a unique picture of this isolated country. The photos of monumental residential buildings and wide roadways are exciting.
North Korea is about cities and infrastructure and its beautiful natural landscapes — rivers, trees, shrubs, and flowers. Local views reveal the natural beauty of a country that is often associated mainly with politics and the military.
Thanks to the photos posted on TikTok, we can better understand what life looks like behind North Korea's closed doors. Perhaps in this way, we can appreciate the universal human desires and aspirations that connect all of us, regardless of political boundaries.
