North Korea is a country shrouded in mystery and often viewed unfavourably, yet it is home to some of the most unique products around. It has its own distinctive cuisine, art and literature, as well as a unique set of technology, fashion and lifestyle products. In this article, we will delve into the many products that have come out of this fascinating and controversial nation, and to explore their history, manufacture, and uses.
North Korea is well known for its unusually centralised economy, with the government owning the majority of resources, businesses, and industries. However, this does not mean that products are not imported or exported. In fact, North Korean factories produce a wide variety of items, from medical supplies and clothes to motor vehicles and electronics. As of 2020, North Korea is experiencing a small economic resurgence, due to increased foreign investment and an improved relationship with other countries.
One of the North Korean products that has gained attention in recent years is the Jangmadang, or ‘market’. These are small, black markets where North Koreans can buy and sell goods not available on the centralised economy. Goods sold in these markets range from clothes, tools, and food, to electronics and jewellery. The products in these markets often come from China, as they have a more diversified selection of products.
Another popular North Korean product is the iconic ‘Chollima’ electric bicycle. It is an iconic symbol of North Korean ingenuity and resilience, as well as a practical tool for city-dwellers to reduce their reliance on public transport. The Chollima electric bicycle has gained attention due to its stylish design, impressive power and low-cost production. It has been featured in many North Korean propaganda films, showcasing the nation’s forward-thinking technology.
North Korean technology is also increasingly gaining attention from the international community. The country has developed a variety of products over the years, from medical equipment and scientific instruments to IT and communications technology. One particularly noteworthy product is the Arirang notebook, a lightweight laptop designed and produced in North Korea. It is equipped with a quad-core processor, a 13-inch display and an impressive 10-hour battery life. The device was released to the global market in 2017 and has since gained attention for its quality and affordability.
North Korea is also home to a unique and diverse range of fashion and lifestyle products. These range from clothes and shoes to bags, jewelry and watches. The country is well known for its unique styles, which often have a militaristic and utilitarian aesthetic. Popular North Korean fashion items include the traditional Korean hanbok, as well as more outlandish pieces made with leather and metal. Additionally, the country is home to a surprisingly large selection of luxury watches, designed and manufactured by North Korean craftsmen.
To conclude, North Korea produces a surprisingly diverse range of products, ranging from the practical to the outlandish. Many of these products have gained international attention due to their unique designs or cost-efficiency. As North Korea’s relationship with the rest of the world continues to improve, it is likely that many more products from the mysterious country will be hitting the world markets in the coming years.
North Korean Alcohol
North Korea has a long history of producing alcoholic drinks, many of which have gained international attention due to their unique flavours and high quality. Among the most famous of these beverages is the rice wine, Soju. This popular beverage is made by fermenting rice, water and yeast in a unique distillation process. It is most well known for its sharp, slightly sweet taste and is often used as an accompaniment to traditional North Korean cuisine. Other popular North Korean alcoholic drinks include Makkoli, a milky-white beverage made from wheat, and the malt liquor, Tang-mun.
North Korea is also home to several unique beers and ales, as well as lagers and other types of beer. Many of these beers are made from local ingredients, such as rice and malt, and have a unique flavour profile. The most famous North Korean beer is Taedonggang, which is renowned for its crisp and refreshing flavour. Additionally, Pyongyang produces several other beers, such as the dark ale Daedonggang and the blonde lager Sinpyong. These beers are extremely popular in North Korea and are gaining attention in the international market due to their high quality.
North Korea is also home to several wine-making projects, though these are not widely available export. These wines are made from local fruits and berries, as well as traditional distillation techniques, and often have a unique flavour and character. North Korean wines have yet to make an impact on the international market, but they may become more widely available in the future.
North Korean Automobiles
North Korea is well known for its automobile industry, which has produced a handful of interesting and unique motor vehicles over the years. The most famous North Korean vehicle is the SsangYong Rexton, a four-wheel-drive SUV which was first released in 2004. It has become an iconic symbol of North Korean ingenuity and is renowned for its ruggedness and reliability. Additionally, the country produces several mid-range sedans and hatchbacks, such as the Kia Besta and the Subaru Libero.
The country also produces its own niche vehicles, such as the diminutive Pyonghwa Hover Bike, a small, electric-powered hovercraft. It is capable of carrying two passengers and is capable of navigating the waterways of North Korea. Additionally, the country has developed several unique military vehicles, such as the FAVIN-1 armoured personnel carrier and the K222 assault rifle.
North Korean automobiles are usually made from locally sourced components and are often built to last. As such, North Korean vehicles can often be found in second-hand markets around the world. These cars are generally sold for much lower prices than their western counterparts, making them a great way to get a reliable car at an affordable cost.
North Korean Music
North Korea is home to an incredibly diverse range of traditional and popular music. While traditional North Korean music is often seen as somber and serious, there is also a more optimistic and dynamic side to the country’s music scene. Popular North Korean music includes folk songs, traditional dance music and more upbeat drum-based genres. Additionally, several modern genres have emerged in recent years, such as hip hop, funk and rock.
North Korea has a handful of popular music labels and artists, such as the hugely popular Pochonbo Electronic Ensemble. The band is renowned for its unique mixture of folk and electronic beats, as well as its catchy pop hooks. Other popular North Korean acts include the rock band Ryoonshin, the rap group Rangyim, and the electronic group MPS.
North Korean music has become increasingly popular in the west in recent years, due to its distinctive melodic and rhythmic qualities. Many westerners have become fans of North Korean music due to its intriguing and often mysterious nature. Additionally, North Korean music has inspired numerous collaborations between North Korean and western acts, with some of the results becoming international successes.
North Korean Art & Crafts
North Korea is home to a vibrant and thriving art and crafts culture. North Korean artists are renowned for their distinct styles, which often incorporates traditional Korean motifs and themes. Popular art forms in North Korea include woodworking, pottery and ceramics, sculpture, paper crafts and painting. The country is also home to several internationally renowned galleries and museums, such as the Mansudae Art Studio and the Koryo Royal Gallery.
North Korean craftsmen are especially renowned for their high quality traditional furniture, pottery and lacquerware. These products are often intricately decorated and have become sought-after souvenirs among tourists. Additionally, North Korean craftsmen have begun to experiment with modern materials, such as plywood and metal, to create unique and stylish furniture and homeware. North Korean crafts can be found in several high-end galleries and stores around the world.
Finally, North Korea is home to a vibrant and diverse literary scene. The country has produced several internationally renowned authors and poets, such as Chollima author Han Sin-Yeol and the renowned poet Pak Sang-Seo. Additionally, North Korea is home to several thriving independent publishing houses, as well as numerous written works, ranging from novels and short stories to biographies and academic texts.
