The Mansudae Grand Monument is an iconic site in Pyongyang, North Korea, renowned for the enormous bronze statues of the country's founding leaders, President Kim Il-sung and Leader Kim Jong-il. Visitors from around the world come to witness the grandeur of this impressive monument that stands as a symbol of the North Korean revolution and leadership. The area surrounding the statues is equally majestic, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and impressive revolutionary monuments that recount the country's history. Tour guides are known to provide visitors with a historical context of the site, emphasizing its importance to the North Korean people. Tourists are expected to show respect during their visit, and it is customary to lay flowers at the feet of the statues and bow as a form of homage to the leaders' contributions to the nation. The visit typically includes a walk around the area to take in the monumental mosaic murals depicting scenes of revolutionary fervor and pride.
The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun was originally the presidential palace but was converted into a mausoleum for the country's founder, President Kim Il-sung, after his death in 1994. Later, it also became the final resting place of his son and successor, Kim Jong-il. The Palace is a site of deep reverence for North Koreans and is one of the most sacred places in Pyongyang. The building's grandeur is a testament to the esteem in which the leaders are held, with its large halls and extensive marble interiors. Visitors to the Palace must adhere to strict dress codes and behavior guidelines. Upon entry, individuals are conveyed on lengthy moving walkways and pass through a series of security checks, rooms, and meticulously maintained corridors before coming face-to-face with the embalmed leaders lying in state. The experience is somber and reflects the persistent cult of personality surrounding the North Korean leadership.
The Juche Tower, also known as the Tower of the Juche Idea, is a monumental structure located on the eastern bank of the Taedong River in Pyongyang. The tower, completed in 1982, was built to commemorate Kim Il-sung's 70th birthday and is dedicated to the Juche ideology - a set of principles that combines self-reliance, strong military posture, and socialism, which forms the basis of North Korean political and economic policies. The tower stands at 170 meters tall, including its flame-shaped top, and offers an observation platform at the tip that provides visitors with panoramic views of the capital. Made up of 25,550 granite blocks (one for each day of Kim Il-sung's life until his 70th birthday), the structure is striking in its symbolism and impressive architectural design. A visit typically includes an educational session about Juche and the opportunity to ascend the tower for a commanding vista of Pyongyang.
The Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum is a monumental institution located in central Pyongyang, which serves as North Korea's central museum of the Korean War, known in North Korea as the Fatherland Liberation War. The museum offers a comprehensive and deeply nationalistic portrayal of the 1950-1953 conflict from the North Korean perspective, featuring numerous exhibits, dioramas, and artifacts, including weaponry, vehicles, and personal effects of the soldiers. The narrative presented takes visitors through the origins of the conflict, major battles, and the eventual armistice, albeit with a heavy emphasis on North Korean heroism and resilience. A highlight of the museum complex is the USS Pueblo, an American Navy intelligence ship captured by North Korea in 1968, now permanently moored on the Taedong River and included as part of the museum tour. The visit is an insightful, if propaganda-heavy, look into how the North Korean regime presents history to its citizens and foreign visitors.
Kim Il Sung Square is a large city square located in the heart of Pyongyang and is an important place for political rallies, military parades, and public events. It was named after the founder of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and has been the site of numerous significant moments in North Korean history since its construction in 1954. The square is bordered by grand government and cultural buildings, symbolizing the power of the regime, and is capable of holding rallies of tens of thousands of people. Visitors to the square can often observe the orderly, disciplined life of Pyongyang as residents practice for various events or go about their daily routines. The experience of standing in Kim Il Sung Square is both humbling and impressive due to its immense size and the stark architecture that surrounds it. While taking photos is usually allowed, tourists should be mindful of local customs and any instructions given by guides or officials.
Mangyongdae Fun Fair, situated in the outskirts of Pyongyang, is known to be North Korea's version of an amusement park. Although it may seem a world away from Western theme parks in terms of the latest technology and ride designs, Mangyongdae offers a unique glimpse into leisure activities in the reclusive state. The park contains a series of rides, from a Ferris wheel to rollercoasters and carousels, many of which appear to be from another era. Observing the local families and schoolchildren enjoying their time at the park can provide an interesting perspective on North Korean culture beyond the usual political narrative. With a retro and nostalgic feel, combined with its local popularity, a visit to Mangyongdae Fun Fair can be an unusual yet memorable part of any trip to Pyongyang. It's advisable to check the conditions of rides beforehand and follow local safety regulations, as safety standards may differ from those abroad.
The Pyongyang Metro is one of the deepest subway systems in the world and doubles as a bomb shelter, with its stations situated up to 110 meters underground. It is both a mode of transportation and an attraction in itself. Tourists are often struck by the grand, elaborate station designs that reflect socialist themes, complete with chandeliers, murals, and mosaic artworks. The metro ride offers a rare chance to mix with locals, providing a glimpse into the everyday lives of Pyongyang residents as they commute. Visitors are generally allowed to travel between a select few stations, each uniquely decorated and named after revolutionary themes. The experience of riding the vintage, yet well-maintained German-made trains through the cavernous tunnels is not to be missed. Guided visits are organized, which provide valuable insights into the functioning of the metro and its significance in North Korea.
Standing at 60 meters tall, Pyongyang's Arch of Triumph was erected to commemorate the Korean resistance to Japan from 1925 to 1945. It is modeled after Paris's Arc de Triomphe but stands taller, underscoring the spirit of the national pride and achievement it is intended to convey. The arch, unveiled in 1982 on the 70th birthday of Kim Il-sung, is decorated with revolutionary sculptures and inscriptions denoting dates of significance in Kim's career. Climbing to the top of the structure, visitors can enjoy an expansive view of the city, including glimpses of the Kim Il Sung Stadium and sacred Mount Paektu. The Arch of Triumph is not only a monument to history but also serves as a starting point for mass dances and parades during national holidays, adding to its ceremonial importance.
Moranbong Park, often referred to as Moran Hill, is a historic park and one of the most popular natural spots in Pyongyang for both tourists and locals. The park is filled with historic pavilions, monuments, and gates, some of which date back hundreds of years. It provides a pleasant green space within the city for walking, picnicking, and socializing. Visitors can watch performances by music groups, join in dance parties, or simply observe families enjoying their leisure time. The park also hosts important monuments such as the Choesung Pavilion and the Ulmil Pavilion, which offer insights into Korean architecture and traditions. Walking through the park's shaded paths and enjoying the scenic views of the city is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon while experiencing a more relaxed side of life in Pyongyang.
The Ryugyong Hotel is one of the most iconic buildings in Pyongyang, although it remains incomplete and not in operation. Its towering pyramid-shaped structure consists of 105 floors and reaches a height of 330 meters, making it the tallest structure in North Korea. Construction began in 1987 but was halted for many years due to economic difficulties, and despite several attempts to restart the project, the building remains unopened to this day. Nevertheless, the Ryugyong Hotel is a subject of curiosity and speculation among visitors, and its imposing silhouette dominates the Pyongyang skyline. While it is not possible to enter the building, visitors can admire its unique architecture from various points in the city and it often serves as a backdrop for photos to remember a trip to Pyongyang. The hotel is a testament to the grand ambitions of the North Korean regime and its complex relationship with modernizing its infrastructure.
