North Korean citizens usually cannot freely travel around the country, let alone travel abroad. Emigration and immigration are strictly controlled. This is because the North Korean government treats emigrants from the country as defectors.

Can you leave North Korea as a tourist?

Do not travel to North Korea due to COVID-19 and the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals. Read the Department of States COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.

Is everyone in North Korea poor?

Poverty in Korea has been attributed to poor governance by the totalitarian regime. It is estimated that 60% of the total population of North Korea live below the poverty line in 2020.