Pyongyang

Pyongyang is the capital and largest city of North Korea, stretching along the Taedong River with wide avenues and monumental structures built mainly in socialist style. Large squares open up between the buildings and serve as gathering spaces for residents.

The city served as administrative center during the Goguryeo Kingdom in 427 and marked its establishment as a regional power hub. After the war in the 1950s, it was almost completely rebuilt and gained its current appearance.

Large public gatherings and parades take place on the central squares, where residents participate in coordinated events. The city comes alive during these assemblies, when thousands of people perform together in carefully rehearsed displays.

The metro system with two lines connects different parts of the city and remains one of the few ways to move around the center. Visitors can tour some of the deep stations, which feature chandeliers and marble finishes.

The triumphal arch on the outskirts stands slightly taller than its Parisian counterpart and commemorates resistance against Japanese occupation. Less known is that the city displays virtually no advertising, but instead carries political slogans on many facades.

Location: North Korea

Elevation above the sea: 38 m

Part of: Pyongan

Shares border with: North Hwanghae Province, South Pyongan Province

Address: Pyongyang, North Korea

GPS coordinates: 39.01667,125.74750

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:25