Introduction
From the moment that former US President Jimmy Carter stepped onto the soil of North Korea in 1994, the relationship between the US and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has been a diplomatic rollercoaster. The hermit state’s hostility to the outside world has been well-documented, making it something of a mystery; why can’t you buy Coca Cola in North Korea?
Geopolitical Tensions
So far, North Korea has shown no indication of softening its stance on international relations, which makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact reason why Coca Cola and other Western commodities are banned from being sold to the country. It is, however, likely that geopolitical tensions between the US and North Korea are the major driving force behind the trade ban. North Korea remains one of the few countries in the world which still have no diplomatic relations with the US, which makes it difficult to craft a trade policy which would satisfy both parties.
Strict Government Regulations
In addition to the geopolitical tensions, North Korea’s domestic policies are other major factors in the trade ban. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has some of the most stringent government regulations in the world. Products such as Coca Cola, which are seen as symbols of Western imperialism, are effectively banned due to North Korea’s strict interpretation of the laws which govern its economy.
South Korea’s Impact
The fact that North and South Korea are still technically at war has also had an effect on trade between the two countries. Coca Cola remains one of the most iconic brands in the world, and it is also seen as a symbol of South Korea’s strength and prosperity. As such, these products are mostly inaccessible in North Korea – partly due to international sanctions and partly due to the very real risk that they could be seen as provocations by the North Korean government.
The Effect on the Population
The lack of access to Coca Cola and other Western products has had a significant impact on the population of North Korea. For example, the UN has estimated that over 20 million people in the country are considered to be “food insecure”, and while the government has been attempting to tackle this issue, the lack of access to international markets and products has been a major roadblock.
Coca Cola’s Diplomatic Initiative
In an attempt to bridge the gap between North and South Korea, Coca Cola has for many years called for a resolution of the conflict and for open dialogue between the two countries. In 2016, the company also launched a special initiative which supplied a series of special gifts to North Korean citizens in an effort to demonstrate goodwill and promote peace.
A Cultural Divide
In the absence of international trade, North Korea has developed its own domestic products, most of which are completely distinct from its South Korean counterparts. This has created a unique cultural divide which has been further widened by the lack of access to international trade and products.
Sanctions and Embargoes
The last major factor which has affected North Korea’s ability to access international markets is the fact that a series of sanctions and embargoes have been imposed on the country. These measures have been designed to punish North Korea for its nuclear activities, and as a consequence, they have also limited its access to essential goods and services.
Limited Access To Foreign Markets
The combination of economic sanctions and political tensions has meant that North Korea is unable to access the same range of goods and services which are available to other countries in the world. This is why it is almost impossible to buy Coca Cola in North Korea.
Domestic Production
However, this does not mean that North Korea is completely devoid of soft drinks and other food and beverage products. In fact, the country has a vibrant domestic food industry which produces a wide range of goods, including soft drinks.
Influence Of The Regime
The North Korean government has a direct influence on what kinds of goods and services are allowed in the country. As a result, it is very difficult for foreign companies and brands to gain access to the market. The government is also very strict in terms of enforcement and has been known to punish those who flout the rules.
The Effect of International Media
One of the main reasons why Coca Cola and other international brands and products are highly sought after in North Korea is because of the influence of international media. This is because the North Korean population is exposed to a wide variety of images and information which show off foreign goods and services. This has created a sense of aspiration among the population and has made international brands, such as Coca Cola, even more desirable.
Future Prospects
As tensions between North and South Korea have begun to ease, it is possible that international brands may eventually be able to gain access to North Korea’s markets. However, even if diplomatic relations improve, it is unlikely that companies such as Coca Cola will be able to penetrate the market due to the strict nature of North Korea’s laws and regulations.
