🇰🇵North Korea

Typically bring

• Passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay and at least two blank pages
• Recent passport‑size photographs meeting the embassy specifications
• Completed North Korea visa application form
• Invitation letter or tour confirmation from a DPRK‑authorised travel agency
• Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., recent bank statement)
• Confirmed return or onward flight itinerary

Watch out for

• Assuming a visa can be obtained on arrival – visas must be secured in advance.
• Using unverified travel agents; only agencies authorised by the North Korean government can issue the necessary invitation.
• Overlooking that independent travel is generally not permitted; tourists must stay with an approved tour group.
• Forgetting to check that the passport has enough blank pages for the visa and entry/exit stamps.
• Neglecting to review Indian government travel advisories and any international sanctions that may affect travel.

Good to know

• The official currency is the North Korean won (KPW), but tourists often pay for tours and expenses in euros, US dollars, or Chinese yuan.
• Korean is the official language; guides usually speak English, but learning a few basic Korean phrases can be helpful.
• Internet access is extremely limited and typically restricted to hotel business rooms; international roaming may not work.
• Travel is tightly controlled: you must follow the itinerary set by your tour operator and respect strict rules on photography, speech, and behaviour.
• While crime against tourists is low, political sensitivities are high; avoid discussing politics or making unauthorised comments.