Photos

Elements of market economy in North Korea

A snack kiosk and bicycle repairing station in Ryonggang county near Nampo (2007)

A snack kiosk in Pyongyang subway (2007)

A snack kiosk in Pyongyang subway (2007)

Ice cream kiosk in Pyongyang subway (2007)

Ice cream kiosk in Pyongyang subway (2007)

Entrance of the Tongil farmers market in Pyongyang (2007)

Inside the Tongil farmers market in Pyongyang (2005)

Foreign and local cars at the entrance of the Tongil farmers market in Pyongyang

Fast food shop sign in Changgwang Street, Pyongyang

Food stalls in Changgwan Street in Pyongyang (2007)

Food stall in Changgwang Steet, Pyongyang (2007)

Given the multiple exchange rates system in North Korea the above prices can be deemed as modest or extremely expensive (depending on the exchange method):
- NK official exchange $1 USD = 156 KNWon (for visiting foreigners and official transactions)
- NK black market exchange rate: $1 USD = 3,000 KNWon (for the locals and foreign residents)
Average monthly salary varies from 5,000 ~ 50,000 NKWon (2007)

Cigarettes price list (2005)

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Cooking Oysters on Petrol in North Korea …

Making BBQ on car petrol might sound like a crazy idea: it’s dangerous and not healthy. But in North Korea, where firewood is a luxury, this method is the most popular way to have a picnic. All you have to do is to forget about the bitter lead aftertaste in your mouth and enjoy the atmosphere of friendship and hospitality…

LP