Tourist Interactions with Locals in North Korea: An Insider’s Perspective

As a seasoned traveller who has visited over 100 countries around the world, I can assertively say that North Korea stands out in terms of interaction with locals. Unlike many other travel destinations where tourists may encounter locals, in North Korea, the situation is far more regulated and controlled.

Government-Minded Tourism

Perhaps the most striking aspect of visiting North Korea as a tourist is the presence of government minders or tour guides. These guides ensure that tourists only stay within designated areas, take photos, and speak with approved individuals. This system creates a bubble of controlled interaction, where the tourists are never truly free to engage with the local populace as they wish.

Stricter Control Over Communication

Contrary to popular belief, tourists are not allowed to talk freely with locals without any oversight. Any conversation must be with those pre-approved by the authorities, who are typically locals who have been screened and vetted. These individuals are instructed to provide only the information and perspectives deemed appropriate by the North Korean government.

The Reality of Limited Engagement

During my 2017 trip to North Korea with my teenage children, we quickly realized the stark difference in the messages we received from our tour guides and the locals. Our guides were extensively trained to ensure that tourists felt safe and impressed, but the locals we encountered did not seem interested in us or have any desire to engage.

The Controlled Tour Experience

Our tour guides would tell us that we could speak with and take pictures of almost anything, but we should first seek permission. However, when we requested permission, it was typically denied. The locals did not look at us or speak with us; they appeared indifferent. Occasionally, certain guides or soldiers would reluctantly allow a picture, but this was extremely rare.

Despite the controlled environment, there was a high level of curiosity among the locals. We would often catch them looking at us when they thought we were not paying attention. During outings away from the guides and cameras, they would approach and show interest. This contrast between the controlled environment and the curiosity of the locals was evident.

During a 10k run in Pyongyang, we deliberately allowed children to interact with us. However, when we grabbed a boy’s attention for a picture, a worker in the station was alerted, and the boy was taken off the train, leading to a mortifying experience. In another instance, our guide repeatedly tried to get us to leave a grocery store when we were the only customers, and eventually, security intervened.

During the 10k run, attempts to interact with the children were met with a military presence. We learned how to say simple pleasantries, and the locals would often smile and return the sentiment. However, if a large group gathered, a soldier would intervene to disperse them. It became clear that the locals were being instructed not to engage with tourists, and the consequences were severe.

In conclusion, while North Korea does present opportunities for interaction, the system is designed to ensure that these interactions are tightly controlled. Tourists are never allowed to freely explore or engage with the local population without strict supervision. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone planning a visit to North Korea to ensure a more authentic and insightful experience.