Yes, most visitors will need to obtain a visa for North Korea to visit Pyongyang. However, tourists cannot apply for a visa themselves and must arrange their visit through an approved tour agency which will handle the visa arrangements. South Korean citizens are generally not allowed to visit.
All tourists must be part of a guided tour organized by specialized travel agencies with approval from the North Korean government. You will typically enter Pyongyang by train or plane from Beijing, China. Independent travel in North Korea is not permitted.
The best time to visit Pyongyang is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. However, many tourists also visit during the Mass Games, which usually occur from August to October.
Top attractions in Pyongyang include the Kim Il-sung Square, the Juche Tower, Kumsusan Palace of the Sun (Mausoleum of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il), the Arch of Triumph, Mansudae Grand Monument (featuring statues of North Korean leaders), and the War Museum.
Photography in North Korea is heavily regulated. You are only allowed to take pictures of designated sites and only with the permission of your guide. Taking photos of military personnel, construction sites, and local people without their express consent is generally prohibited, and there may be restrictions on the type of camera equipment you can bring.
Foreign tourists are usually expected to use Euros, Chinese Yuan, or US Dollars in Pyongyang. There are several locations where you can exchange money, but you cannot purchase goods and services using the North Korean Won, which is the local currency, as this is only for North Korean citizens.
North Korean cuisine in Pyongyang typically features rice, kimchi (fermented vegetables), noodles, and a selection of meats or tofu. Tourists are generally served meals at their designated hotels or restaurants that cater to foreigners, as there is no free access to local eateries.
Tourists are closely supervised by government-appointed guides and are expected to follow strict rules of conduct. As long as these rules are adhered to, Pyongyang is considered safe for tourists. However, bear in mind that the legal system is very different from that of Western countries, and what may be trivial infractions elsewhere can lead to severe penalties.
Interaction with locals is highly controlled and usually limited to official guides and service staff. Unauthorized socializing can be frowned upon and may bring consequences for both the tourist and the North Korean citizen involved.
Pack modest and conservative clothing, keeping in mind the country's strict dress codes. You'll want to bring season-appropriate attire, toiletries, any required medication, and copies of important travel documents. Electronics are subject to search and potential confiscation, so pack accordingly and only bring what is necessary.
