Pyongyang is the capital and largest city of North Korea, located in the southwest part of the country, on the Taedong River. Established more than 5,000 years ago, it is an ancient city with a rich history, now serving as the political, industrial, and cultural epicenter of the country. The city's layout is gridded and expansive with large boulevards and public spaces, reflecting the principles of socialist planning. Key landmarks include the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where the embalmed bodies of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il are preserved; the iconic Juche Tower; the Ryugyong Hotel, known for its distinctive pyramidal shape; and the Arch of Triumph, reminiscent of Paris' Arc de Triomphe but larger in size. Pyongyang is also known for its metro system, adorned with elaborate decor and chandeliers. The city hosts numerous festivals and is the focal point of North Korea's Mass Games, which showcase synchronized gymnastics and artistic performances. Despite its political isolation, it serves as the administrative hub for North Korea's government and is a symbol of the country's self-reliance ethos as portrayed by the state.
