Visiting North Korea — My Journey Into The Hermit Kingdom…

(first published in 2016)

It’s the world’s most secretive state, powered by a regime that’s shrouded in mystery to most of the world — welcome to North Korea. Against many recommendations, I travelled there with my best friend Mitchell in early 2015. If you’re seeking a unique and unusual destination, then you consider North Korea, while it’s still open to tourism. Here are just a few insights from my experience in the great Hermit Kingdom…

How to get there

Contrary to popular belief, getting to North Korea isn’t too difficult. To apply for a DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) VISA, it’s best to go via a western travel agency that can submit your application to the capital. We chose Young Pioneer Tours as our travel agency and local guides. Their team are fun to travel with and made the experience feel safe and structured.

Once approved, you will need a Chinese multi-entry visa to begin and end your trip in China. We took the sleeper train from Beijing to the border Dandong and across the river bridge.

The first image of my trip. Taken just before dawn approaching the Dandong border, a North Korean girl waits by the window.