Traveling through North Korea
Synopsis
Two Berliners traveled 25 hours by train from Beijing to Pyongyang, where they were chaperoned by guides for a week in North Korea.
Synopsis
On July 27, 2013, Gregor Möllers and Anne Lewald arrive in Pyongyang for Victory Day, a celebration marking the end of the Korean War. They stay at the Koryo Hotel, where they are chaperoned by guides during their week-long visit. The trip is heavily monitored, with restrictions on movement and photography. The filmmakers return in 2017, noting changes in the city’s infrastructure and a shift in the people’s attire. They capture their experiences and encounters, providing insight into life in North Korea.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See the military parade on Victory Day in 2013.
- Find out how travelers navigate strict tourism rules.
- Meet the guides who control the visitors' experiences.
- Discover the changes in Pyongyang's appearance over four years.
Did You Know
- Kim Jong-Il died in December 2011, leading to Kim Jong-Un's leadership.
- Travelers must sign a declaration stating their visit is not for journalism.
- In 2013, Pyongyang had only two hotels for foreign visitors.
- Victory Day is celebrated on July 27, marking the end of the Korean War.
- In 2013, many houses in Pyongyang were grey and mold-infested.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What year did Kim Jong-Il die?
Kim Jong-Il died in December 2011.
How long was the train journey from Beijing to Pyongyang?
The train journey from Beijing to Pyongyang took 25 hours.
What is celebrated on July 27th in North Korea?
July 27th is celebrated as Victory Day, marking the end of the Korean War.
What are people saying?
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