My Holiday in North Korea

02The Surreal City of Pyongyang

In the heart of North Korea lies the city of Pyongyang, a place that seems to exist in a parallel universe, where the past and present coexist in a surreal harmony. The city's architecture and culture are a testament to the country's unique ideology and history, offering a glimpse into a world that is both fascinating and unsettling. The Juche Tower, a 170-meter tall monument, stands as a symbol of the country's resilience and dedication to the ideology of Juche, introduced by the country's first leader, Kim Il-sung. Its imposing presence and the panoramic view of the city from the top provide a stark reminder of the country's unwavering commitment to its principles. The granite blocks of the tower are a metaphor for the resilience of the North Korean people, standing tall amidst the challenges they face. The Mansudae Grand Monument, a massive bronze statue of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, is another testament to the country's reverence for its leaders. The strict protocol for paying respects, which includes bowing and laying flowers at the feet of the statues, underscores the deep-seated respect and loyalty the citizens have for their leaders. The monument's grandeur contrasts starkly with the city's otherwise austere architecture, creating a surreal atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and disconcerting. The Ryugyong Hotel, an unfinished 105-story pyramid-shaped skyscraper, adds to the city's surreal landscape. The eerie sight of the empty, glass-covered building, which has been under construction since 1987, is a silent testament to the country's ambitious yet unfulfilled dreams. The strange silence surrounding the hotel, with locals seemingly avoiding any discussion about it, adds to the city's enigmatic charm. The peculiarities of Pyongyang extend beyond its architecture. The complete absence of advertisements, replaced instead by omnipresent propaganda, is a stark reminder of the state's control over information. The city's billboards do not promote products or services, but instead showcase idealized images of the country's leaders and slogans promoting the state's ideology. The ubiquitous loudspeakers, broadcasting patriotic songs and messages at all hours, further reinforce the state's omnipresence. A visit to a local school reveals a highly choreographed performance by the students, who flawlessly recite political speeches and perform synchronized dances. The intensity of these performances is both impressive and unsettling, reflecting the state's influence on education and the shaping of young minds. The city's metro system, adorned with ornate mosaics and chandeliers, is eerily quiet and devoid of the usual hustle and bustle. The absence of newspapers and magazines, replaced instead by state-produced pamphlets, is another stark reminder of the state's control over information. In conclusion, Pyongyang is a city that seems frozen in time, a place where the past and present coexist in a surreal harmony. Its architecture, culture, and people provide a fascinating glimpse into a world that is both intriguing and unsettling, a testament to the resilience and dedication of the North Korean people.

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