North Korea
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 26.6 million people live in North Korea, on 120,540 km². The capital is Pyongyang.
- Capital
- Pyongyang
- Population
- 26,571,036
- Area
- 120,540 km²
- Official languages
- Korean and North Korean standard language
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in North Korea?
Sockets take plug type A/C, at 220 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in North Korea?
Call 119 for police, ambulance and fire.
Do you tip in North Korea?
Not expected.
Which side of the road do they drive on in North Korea?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in North Korea?
Prices are in North Korean Won (KPW).
What language do they speak in North Korea?
Official languages: Korean and North Korean standard language.
How do I call a number in North Korea from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +850.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
