Geography of North Korea and Arizona
North Korea and Arizona are two very different countries. North Korea is a secretive and isolated nation located in eastern Asia while Arizona is a southwestern state of the United States. Arizona lies in the western region of the United States, while North Korea is located over 5,000 miles (8,047 km) away on the other side of the world.
The geography of North Korea is relatively simple since it is a relatively small and homogenous nation, as compared to the diverse landscape and diverse culture in the American Southwest. North Korea is bordered by China and Russia to the north and east, while the South and Sea of Japan separate the western portion from Japan and South Korea. The country has a long and slender shape and is around 120,500 square miles (312,000 km2). The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) marks the border with South Korea.
The climate of North Korea is continental, with hot summers and cold winters. The terrain is mostly mountainous and over 70% of the country is covered with mountains and hills. The highest peak is Mount Paektu, which stands at 9,002 ft (2,750 m). The country is also home to many beautiful rivers and lakes, including the Yalu and Tumen Rivers.
Arizona is a much larger state than North Korea and is around 114,000 square miles (295,000 km2). The Four Corners region serves as the state’s most recognizable natural landmark. It is bordered by California and Nevada to the west and Utah to the north. Colorado lies just to the east and New Mexico to the southeast. Comparing to North Korea, the climate in Arizona is much harsher and drier. Summers in Arizona can reach temperatures up to 115°F (46°C) while winter temperatures can dip to as low as 5°F (-15°C).
Distance Between North Korea and Arizona
The two states, North Korea and Arizona, may be worlds apart, but the exact distance between them is something that can easily be measured. North Korea is located at 38°53’41″N 125°30’04″E and Arizona is located at 34°04’48″N 112°02’24″E. When using a geodesic distance calculator, it is only possible to calculate the road distance between the two locations. The distance between the two states is 5,299 miles (8,531 km), which is roughly the same as the distance between two cities on opposite sides of the United States.
However, if one were to use an airplane to make the journey, the flight time would be significantly less. A direct flight from North Korea to Arizona would take around 17.5 hours, depending on which airport is chosen in Phoenix, Arizona. The flight distance from Pyongyang to Phoenix, Arizona, is around 8,944 miles (14,384 km).
Economic and Political Differences Between North Korea and Arizona
Not only are the geography and distance between North Korea and Arizona vast, but the two countries and states also have huge economic and political differences. North Korea is a single-party communist state, ruled by Kim Jong Un since 2011. It is considered to be one of the most difficult countries to visit and the most reclusive in the world. North Korea has a largely centralized economy, meaning that the government controls the production and distribution of all goods and services. The private sector is almost non-existent and individual businesses are not allowed.
Meanwhile, the US state of Arizona has an advanced economy and welcomes foreign investment. The state has an open and free-market economy, meaning that businesses are allowed to operate freely, without government control. Arizona has a diversified economic base which includes agricultural, aerospace, biotechnology, electronics, information technology, and tourism.
North Korea and Arizona in the Global Context
The two countries and states of North Korea and Arizona also differ in terms of their global standings. North Korea is considered to be a rogue nation and is not recognized by most of the world, including the United States. North Korea has been accused of numerous human rights violations and continues to be one of the most reclusive nations in the world.
Meanwhile, the United States has been a global superpower for many decades and Arizona is considered to be a part of this global power. The US is a major player in worldwide politics and economics and Arizona is no exception. Arizona is home to many major US companies, including Intel, Southwest Airlines, and Honeywell. The US Constitution also guarantees the right to freedom of expression, which has seen the US become a major force in the protection of civil rights.
Cultural Differences in North Korea and Arizona
The cultural differences between North Korea and Arizona are also vast. North Korea is a highly homogenous nation, and the North Korean culture is built upon Confucianism, Buddhism, and Chondoism. North Korea’s national ideology is Juche, which was developed by former leader Kim Il Sung in the mid-20th century.
In contrast, the culture in Arizona is much more diverse and includes influences from Mexican, Native American, and European cultures. English continues to be the primary language spoken in Arizona, though there are many other languages such as Spanish, French, German, Navajo, and Hopi spoken by residents. Arizona also has an active art and music scene, with many notable artists and bands hailing from the state.
Effects of North Korea and Arizona’s Relations
It is obvious that North Korea and Arizona have absolutely no diplomatic relations, with both countries barely recognizing each other’s existence. North Korea is considered to be one of the most isolated countries in the world, so it makes sense that the two countries would have limited contact. The United States has imposed strict economic sanctions on North Korea in an effort to contain its nuclear program and to put pressure on the North Korean regime to cease its human rights violations.
The United States also has an expansive presence in the Southwest, and Arizona is no exception. The US Department of Defense spends billions of dollars on military operations and training exercises in the region. The US also has a heavy presence in Arizona, having established numerous military bases, research facilities, and laboratories.
Conclusion of North Korea and Arizona Contrast
Despite the huge differences between North Korea and Arizona in terms of geography, culture, and economic and political standing, the two countries still maintain a fragile relationship. The United States continues to impose sanctions on North Korea in an attempt to contain its nuclear program, while the United States also has a strong military presence in the Southwest. Ultimately, how far North Korea is from Arizona depends on if it is measured in terms of road distance or flight time, but both countries are separated by more than 5,000 miles.
