North Korea: A Comedian’s Guide to the Hermit Kingdom

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, is a country located in East Asia. It is a notoriously secretive and isolated country, ruled by the family of late dictator Kim Jong-il.

With a population of over 25 million people, North Korea is like no other country on the planet. For starters, the entire nation is one big stage for their eccentric and often comical leader, Kim Jong-un.

Due to North Korea’s isolation, much of what we know about the country is determined by what is allowed to be observed from the outside. However, if there is one thing that is certain about North Korea, it is that this country knows how to draw a crowd – even if it’s through forced labor.

When it comes to the economy, North Korea represents the ultimate in self-reliance. The country has remained cut off from the outside world for so long, in fact, that it has created language barriers for its own people.

While North Korea is notorious for its strict regulation on its citizens’ freedom of expression, it is famous for its propaganda campaigns promoting the ruling dynasty. Statues and portraits of Kim Il-Sung, the country’s founding father, and his son, Kim Jong-il, and grandson Kim Jong-un are ubiquitous. Almost every aspect of life in North Korea is dedicated to gratifying the needs of the ruling family, and you can find an endless stream of artists, musicians, and dancers who have been conscripted to perform for them.

Despite its reputation as a secretive and at times brutally repressive regime, North Korea remains a fascinating country to the rest of the world. Few countries can boast having their own nuclear program, and friends in high (or at least unexpected) places like United States President Donald Trump.

All joking aside, North Korea is a country that has endured for decades, despite being at odds with the rest of the world. Though it may still be a punchline for some people, it’s worthwhile to remember that North Korea, while an oddity, is still a country running on its own rules and values.