In the previous article, we have seen some lamentable laws that reign over the nation of North Korea and today we shall learn more!

1. Internet

Can you imagine living in a world without the Internet? Nowadays, the Internet has become a necessity for everyone – from middle-aged people to small children.

However, once more, North Korea has left no stone unturned in proving itself as a dictatorship regime. Internet in North Korea can only be accessed by the state-created intranet called “Kwangmyong” which was launched in 2000. You will be shocked to learn that only 28 websites can be accessed and under government supervision. And not anyone can use the Internet. There is a list of people who have the rights to Internet access, such as North Korean political leaders and their families, elite students and the military’s cyber department.

Another interesting and strange fact is how Wi-Fi is banned in all North Korean embassies around the world.

Furthermore, unlike other countries, operating systems, such as the standard Windows or Mac Operating Systems, are prohibited in North Korea. Instead, the country uses its own operating system called ‘Red Star OS’, which has been designed only in the Korean language and which is supervised by the state.

But the most appalling rule is that you need the government’s permission before even buying a computer.

2. Where Will I Live?

Do you usually ask the government of your country before moving and living in a place? The answer is obvious!

But, in North Korea, the government chooses where people will live based on their relationship with the state. For instance, if the citizens want to live in Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, they need the state’s approval as their supreme leader, Kim Jong-Un, wants only wealthy and successful people to live in the capital.

3. No Travelling Abroad

If a man was executed for making international calls, what will happen to those who travel abroad? In North Korea, travelling abroad is prohibited and can be severely punished by the state. For instance, one can either be sent to camps for forced labour or can be executed.

4. Same Names

As per North Korea’s rules, citizens do not have the right to have the same name as the current president and consequently, everyone named Kim had to change their names.

5. Religious Freedom

Religious freedom in North Korea is a complete myth as it is an atheist country where western religious beliefs and practices are strictly prohibited. Previously, people who distributed Bibles to the citizens were publicly executed.

Always remember that North Korea should never be on your list for missionary trips!

6. Voting

It is illegal not to vote in North Korea. It is compulsory for all citizens who are above the age of 17 to vote in the elections.

However, there is one problem: they must all vote for only one person as there is usually only one candidate on the ballot. Guess who?

7. No Blue Jeans

If you like blue jeans, do not travel to North Korea!

Wearing blue jeans in North Korea is strictly prohibited and illegal. Why? Because blue jeans are associated with the Western concept, the Communist leader, Kim Jong Un, does not allow the citizens to wear them. However, black jeans can be worn.

8. Fires

Suppose a fire breaks out in your house? What will be the first things you will do?

As per North Korea’s laws, during such situations, one must always save the pictures of North Korean political leaders first and only then can you save your own lives and belongings.

What a farce!

9. No Microwave

Microwaves are considered as one of the essential kitchen appliances.

In the famous 2020 K drama called “Crash Landing on you”, North Korean soldiers were amazed at all the microwaves found in South Korea. Why? Because it is considered illegal to own a microwave in North Korea.

10. Human Waste

When South Korea stopped sending fertilisers to North Korea in 2008, the autocratic government ordered its citizens to collect their own poop and hand it over to the authorities to help the country’s agricultural sector.

So, based on these laws, do you think you could ever muster the courage to visit North Korea? Please share your comments!