North Korea

North Korea is a country in East Asia on the northern part of the Korean Peninsula. It is one of the most secretive countries in the world. Very few visitors are allowed in, and people there have limited contact with the outside world.

Land and People

About 26 million people live in North Korea. The capital is Pyongyang. The country has mountains, forests, and farmland. The border between North and South Korea is the most heavily guarded in the world.

Map showing what old Korea looked like long ago.
Map showing what old Korea looked like long ago. (Myself / Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

North Korea and South Korea used to be one country before they split in 1945. North Koreans eat kimchi and cold noodle soup. The country has a large military and holds big parades. Information from the outside world is very limited for most people.

Fun Facts

  • North Korea and South Korea are technically still at war since a peace treaty was never signed.
  • The border between North and South Korea is called the DMZ and is 2.5 miles wide.
  • North Korea has its own calendar that starts from the birth year of its first leader.

Did You Know?

The border between North and South Korea is called the Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ. Even though it was meant to be empty, it has become a nature reserve. Rare animals like cranes and deer live there because no people are allowed in.