Nuclear games ordered by the United States: the CIA's trace in the North Korean missile program has been revealed. Geography of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK, North Korea) Minerals of the Korean Peninsula

Few people consider North Korea to be a prosperous country. But there is something that it is really rich in: mineral resources.

The country contains huge reserves of minerals, including iron, gold, zinc, copper, limestone, molybdenum, graphite - about 200 types of minerals in total. There are also large quantities of rare earth metals used in the production of smartphones and other high-tech products. Estimates of the value of the country's mineral resources have varied widely over the years and have been complicated by secrecy and lack of access to them. According to one South Korean mining company estimate, they are worth more than $6 trillion. Another research institute from South Korea predicts at $10 trillion.

North Korea has prioritized the development of its mining sector since 1970. But while production increased until about 1990 - and peaked in 1985 - it began to decline after that. In 2012, the number of mines in the country was about 700. Many were poorly functioning and in disrepair. The country lacks the equipment, expertise and even basic infrastructure to properly hit the jackpot that awaits it in the ground. In April, Lloyd R. Vasey, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted: “North Korean mining production has declined significantly since the early 1990s. It is likely that the average operating rate of existing mine facilities is below 30% of capacity. There is a shortage of mining equipment, North Korea is unable to purchase new equipment due to the difficult economic situation, energy shortages, age and the general poor state of the power grid.” Private mining is illegal in communist North Korea, as are private enterprises in general. The ruling regime under third-generation dictator Kim Jong Un has been known to kick foreign mining companies out of the country or suddenly change the terms of agreements. Despite all this, the people are so endowed with underground resources that mining accounts for approximately 14% of the economy.

China is the main consumer of this sector. Last September, South Korea's state-run Korea Development Institute said mineral trade between North Korea remains a cash cow for Pyongyang despite UN sanctions and that it accounted for 54% of North Korea's total trade with China in the first half of 2016. year. China imported $73 million worth of iron ore from North Korea in 2015, and $680,000 worth of zinc in the first quarter of this year. North Korea has been particularly active in coal mining in recent years. In 2015, China imported about $1 billion worth of coal from North Korea. Coal remains particularly attractive because it can be mined using relatively simple equipment. Large deposits of the material are located near major ports and on the border with China, which alleviates the problem of poor transport infrastructure in the country.

For years, Chinese buyers have purchased coal from North Korea at a much lower market price. Last summer, coal supplies to China accounted for about 40% of all North Korean exports. But global demand for coal is declining as natural gas and renewables gain momentum. At the beginning of 2017, Beijing, in accordance with UN sanctions, began limiting its neighbor's coal imports. After North Korea conducted its first nuclear test in 2006, the UN tightened sanctions against it. In 2016, attention focused on the country's underground resources. In November 2016, the UN adopted a resolution to reduce North Korean coal exports and ban the supply of nickel, copper, zinc and silver. This was followed by a ruling in March 2016 banning the export of gold, vanadium, titanium and rare earth metals.

Of course, Pyongyang is adept at evading such sanctions, especially through maritime transport. Periodically, this covert activity comes to light during random interceptions of ships. Earlier in 2017, a UN group of experts concluded that North Korea, despite sanctions, continues to export prohibited minerals.

July 2nd, 2015 , 10:36 pm

Maybe some of the specialists will find this background information useful...

Recently, there has been regular talk about “huge reserves of rare earth metals,” which should become a kind of payment for Russia’s implementation of large infrastructure projects in the DPRK. Here I came across a couple of figures on this topic from the Institute for the Association of the Chunan Ilbo newspaper. It seems to me that these numbers are very exaggerated, but I’ll just say what they gave (although they also say that this is “supposedly”)

It turns out that in terms of rare earth metals, the southerners (represented by this Institute) in terms of reserves of rare earth metals put North Korea in second place in the world after China .
Here are the data: in millions of tons: China - 89, North Korea - 48, Russia - 21, USA -14, Australia - 5.8, India - 1.3.

I note that representatives North Korea puts itself first in the world. Last year, the Department of Geological Exploration of the Ministry of Development of State Resources of the DPRK (the exact name may be different, so for accuracy I will write as it was called in the article - 조사국 국가자원개발성) announced the results of its estimates of the reserves of rare earth metals in the DPRK - as much as 210 million tons. That is, I repeat, first place in the world. They say that geologists from Australia were involved in the work. Southerners looked at this and said that these were only “estimates” and not the results of geological exploration; it must be taken into account that these metals are often found among other resources, and therefore it is difficult to get to rare earth ones. In general, according to southerners (referring to an anonymous source in the government of the South), the economically justified volumes are exactly 49 million tons. That is, second place in the world.

Main deposits and mines : in the area of ​​the west coast and near it - Cheolsan, Ryongpo, Mongeumpo, in the DMZ area in the center - Upton, in the area of ​​the east coast - Chhaho, Opok, in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bKimcheka and Ryongyang, as well as Musan (on the border with China).

It turns out that North Korea is even ahead of Russia. I am not an expert on this topic, but it seems to me that this is a very, very strong overstatement. Otherwise, North Korea would have been trading rare earth metals for a long time and in large quantities. It is clear that there is a problem of lack of electricity, technology and other things. But if there was such a guaranteed jackpot, I am sure that Pyongyang would have gotten to the reserves and opened them, given the strong need for currency.
According to southerners, northerners exported only 60 tons of rare earth metals to China last year.

On the other hand, several years ago persistent rumors began to appear that and in the world market of rare earth metals there was some kind of not very explainable stuffing from somewhere. Some began to nod towards the DPRK. But it remained at the level of rumors.
I will also add that rare earth metals now look like the main “wallet” with which, it is believed, the DPRK will pay Russia for all the announced megaprojects (the same “Victory”). I know about the skeptical grunts, but here it is.

If geology specialists have their say, I will be grateful. In particular, it is interesting how difficult it is to organize the production of rare earth metals, comments on rumors about the DPRK possibly having world-class reserves, and other things on the topic. And so, as a rule, you have to listen to arguments on this topic from political scientists, at best economists, who are generally not particularly specialists in natural resource deposits.

And now about the oil reserves in the DPRK

Main points of the note

In December 2013, the Mongolian company HBOil acquired a 20% stake in the North Korean Synni Oil Refinery for $10 million. They were going to conduct geological exploration for the presence of oil and gas reserves in the DPRK.
- in 2004, the British company Aminex announced a high probability of the presence of oil and gas fields in the Tonghan basin of the East (Japan) Sea. Preliminary estimates are 4-5 billion barrels of oil. They signed an agreement with North Korean partners, but stopped working in 2012 due to the unstable situation around the DPRK.
- In 2005, the Chinese CNNOC announced the possibility of having up to 60 billion barrels of oil in the Sohan Bay of the Yellow Sea. An MOU was signed with Deputy Prime Minister of the DPRK Roh Doo Chol. Cooperation has been suspended due to the cooling of bilateral political relations.
- There are also rumors that there are reserves in Myongchon and Onseong counties of North Hamgyong province and Onseong county of the province (Myongcheon - 300 million barrels, Onseong - 100-300 million). There is talk about the presence of reserves in Anju and Kaechon counties of South Pyongan province.
- Representatives of the DPRK Ministry of Foreign Trade themselves stated (according to the Chunan Ilbo version) that they have oil reserves of 60-90 billion barrels. If this is so, then in terms of oil reserves the DPRK is in 8th place in the world, right after the UAE. But this is at least not confirmed, and experts have little faith in it.
- The DPRK has some reserves, but does not have the money or equipment to carry out exploration work. Drilling one well (test) costs $10 million. The PRC does not particularly want to supply drilling equipment to the DPRK (according to the Chunan Ilbo, because it is afraid that having discovered oil, the DPRK will become independent of Chinese help)
- At the moment, the DPRK imports a significant amount of oil from Russia, deliveries are carried out by tankers through the ports of Chongjin and Rajin. Processed at the Synni refinery in the Rason region. In the period from January to September 2014, the DPRK imported $15 million worth of crude oil from the Russian Federation, which is 12% more than in the same period in 2013.
- From China, oil goes to the DPRK from Daqing through Dandong and Sinuizhu. Oil refining is carried out at the Ponghwa Refinery.
- Due to the fall in oil prices, the DPRK has generally lost interest in searching for oil; it believes that it is more profitable to import.

I repeat once again, all these theses are not mine, but are given in the note, I only voiced them here to the esteemed public.

The Korean Peninsula is rich in mineral resources, and for some types it has reserves of world significance. Coal reserves are mainly represented by anthracite and brown coal. The largest anthracite deposits are located along the middle and upper reaches of Taedong and in the East Korean Mountains. The most significant deposits of brown coal are located in the valley of the Tumangan River and on the northeastern coast (Kilju-Myongchon basin). The quality of Korean coals is average; they do not coke and, due to their weak mechanical strength, require briquetting.

Over 90% of Korea's iron ore reserves are located in the north of the country. The largest deposit (Musanskoye) is located along the middle reaches of the river. Tumangan, between Musan and Hweryeong; reserves are determined at 1.3 billion tons of ore with an average iron content of about 40%. The main raw materials of ferrous metallurgy, as is known, are the ores of iron, titanium, manganese, and chromium. Korea has deposits of all these types of minerals. Iron ore occurrences are especially numerous.

Tungsten and molybdenum are represented by many deposits and the most famous deposits are in the North. There are large deposits of lead-zinc ores, often with an admixture of silver. They are found in many areas of the country, mainly in the north: in the provinces of North Hamgyong and Hwanghae. Copper is usually found in combination with other metals. Copper-gold-silver deposits in the northwest and south of Korea are important. Large deposits of nickel-copper ores are located in the northeast and near the city of Jeonju in the south of the country. Of the copper deposits themselves, the most significant are Kapsanskoye and Khuchhanskoye in the North Korean mountains. Light metal ores are also common in Korea, especially magnesites, the reserves of which in the northeast of the country alone are estimated at more than 3.6 billion tons in the provinces of North and South Hamgyong. Gold is found everywhere. These are mainly gold-bearing quartz veins. The largest deposits are located in the Amnokkan Highlands area. Placer gold is found in river sediments and near bedrock deposits in deluvial deposits.

Among other minerals, graphite stands out, deposits of which are found in many areas of the country, especially in the North Korean mountains. Earthy graphite deposits are located in South Pyongan, South Hamgyong and North Chungcheong provinces. Large deposits of kaolin, which serves as an important raw material not only for the aluminum industry, but also for the porcelain and earthenware industry and the building materials industry, are located in the DPRK, and in South Korea - in the provinces of Gyeongsangnam-do and Jeollanamdo.

Kim G.N. Korea Guide

Especially for IA RUSKOR

Geographical location

North Korea (DPRK)

located in eastern Asia, the country occupies the northern part of the Korean Peninsula and the adjacent part of the mainland. The state borders on China in the north and Russia in the northeast. In the south, the DPRK borders the Republic of Korea. From the west the country is washed by the Yellow Sea, from the east by the Sea of ​​Japan. The country owns several small islands in the West Korea Gulf. The capital of the state is the city of Pyongyang. The country's territory is 120,540 km². The terrain of the country is mainly mountainous, with a large number of valleys and ravines. The largest coastal plain areas are located in the southwest of the country.

A whole network of short and low mountain ranges and plateaus cover the entire northern and eastern parts of the peninsula. The highest point of the country is Mount Paektu (2750 m). It is located on the border with China.

There are a large number of rivers on the territory of the DPRK: Taedongan, Cheryongan, Choncheongan, Yalujiang (Amnokkan), etc.

In winter, the DPRK receives cold continental air from the mountainous regions of the Asian mainland. The average winter temperature is -4°C in the southern regions and -8°C in the northern regions. In mountainous areas of the country, winter temperatures can drop to -18°C. Quite often there is warming in winter.

In summer, oceanic air masses make the country's climate very humid. The average temperature in summer is +18-22°C.

Precipitation in the Pyongyang area ranges from 800-1000 mm per year, in mountainous areas on the east coast - up to 1500-2000 mm. the greatest amount of precipitation falls during the monsoon (mid-summer) and late autumn. In winter there is usually little snowfall and strong winds often blow.

The best time to visit North Korea is late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October).

Visas, entry rules, customs rules

Currently, entry into North Korea is only possible as part of an officially organized group. Visas are issued only for groups. You can obtain a visa through a travel company or at the consular section of the embassy, ​​which is more difficult and will take longer. The travel company must be officially recognized by the DPRK Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The cost of a tourist visa is about 40 US dollars. Registration of documents usually takes up to 1 month. The visa may be without explanation.

The import and export of foreign currency is permitted; it will need to be declared. For the entire amount spent in foreign currency, the tourist will have to provide documents confirming the legal purchase of goods.

In case of currency exchange, you will need a certificate from the bank. The import and export of national currency is strictly prohibited.

Small amounts of tobacco and alcoholic beverages, as well as personal items, can be imported into North Korea duty free. You will have to declare any souvenirs, products made of precious metals, personal computers, photo and video cameras, watches, tape recorders.

It is prohibited to import mobile phones, pagers and laptop computers into the country. If you declare them, they will be returned upon departure from the country. You also cannot import photo, audio, video and household appliances into the country in larger quantities than required for personal needs.

The import of propaganda literature, foreign books about North and South Korea, literature in Korean, pornographic materials, weapons and ammunition, explosives, binoculars, seeds, drugs and narcotic-containing medications is prohibited. Pets, plants and groceries can be imported if special certificates are available.

Customs rules in a country can change quite often.

Population, political status

The population of North Korea is about 24 million people. Ethnically, the largest part of the population is represented by Koreans ("Joseon saram"), there are also a small number of Chinese and Japanese in the country.

The official language of North Korea is Korean. He belongs to the Altai group of the East Asian race. The phonemic letter "Hangul" is used. This is one of the few forms of writing that have survived unchanged from the Middle Ages to the present day. However, the language of the DPRK is different from that of South Korea. People here speak with a distinctive accent and use a large number of idioms borrowed from China and Russia.

The country's largest cities: Pyongyang (2,470,000 people), Chongjin (754,000 people), Nampo (691,000 people), Sinuiju (500,000 people), Wonsai (350,000 people), Kaesong (345,000 people).

North Korea is a democratic republic with a communist form of government. The head of the state and government is the Secretary General of the Workers' Party of Korea and the Chairman of the Defense Committee of the DPRK - Kim Jong Il. The highest government body is the Defense Committee of the DPRK (National Defense Committee).

Legislative power is exercised by the unicameral Supreme People's Assembly. This assembly consists of 678 deputies elected by the people for 5 years.

Administratively, the DPRK consists of 9 provinces (“to” or “do”) and two cities under central control. These cities have the status of provinces.

What to see

Pyongyang is one of the most ancient cities in northeastern Asia. After the Korean War it was rebuilt.

The appearance of Pyongyang is very original and contradictory.

One of the main attractions is the Juche Tower of Ideas. The height of this monument is 170 meters. In front of the tower there is a 30-meter sculptural group of the same name.

The Arc de Triomphe is located on the spot where Kim Il Sung gave his speech about the unity and independence of the nation. It looks very much like Paris.

Nearby you can see the Pyongyang Tower with a panoramic restaurant. The famous huge stadium named after Kim Il Sung is also located here. On the river island of Rungnado there is a stadium named after the First of May. Koreans consider it the largest stadium in the world.

In the city center, on Mansu Hill, you can see the monumental sculptural ensemble of Kim Il Sung and the Museum of the Korean Revolution. The huge statue has become a traditional place of pilgrimage for local residents. The museum building is decorated with a huge mosaic panel of Mount Paektu. This mountain became famous during the war with Japan.

The Liberation Monument stands on Moranbong Hill. It is dedicated to the Soviet wars. The ancient Eulmildae gazebo is also located here. Another famous attraction is the Chollima Monument, or Chollima, a huge statue of a winged horse. It symbolizes progress and prosperity.

Kim Il Sung Square hosts army parades, demonstrations and various events. The People's Palace of Study stands here. The height of its tower is 55 meters. Be sure to show tourists the home of Kim Il Sung. It is located in Mangyende, near the capital. Here you can also visit an amusement park and the Mangyongdae Revolutionary School. The Kumsusan Memorial Palace is considered a very important attraction. It formerly served as the Palace of Conventions and now houses Kim Il Sung's mausoleum. The Korean Unification Monument was erected above Thongyir Avenue at the southern entrance to Pyongyang.

Of great interest to tourists are the ruins of the Anhakkung Royal Palace and two cascades of fountains on the Taedong River. These fountains are considered to be the tallest fountains in the world.

Pyongyang has many parks and recreation areas. Particularly popular are the Mangyongdae and Daesongsan amusement parks, the Kaesong Youth Park, the Central Zoo and the Central Botanical Garden. The Revolutionary Memorial Cemetery is located nearby. Here you can also see a park with color and musical fountains.

Near the city there are many interesting historical sites: the tomb of King Tangan, the Anak tomb. There are also hot springs and waterfalls here.

The city is located 40 km south of Pyongyang Nampho. It is the main international port and commercial center of the DPRK. The main attraction of the city can be called the Western Sea hydro complex. This structure is a complex 8-kilometer system of dams, dikes and locks at the mouth of the Taedong River.

Near Nampo, tourists can see ancient frescoes from the Goguryeo Empire era, three tombs in Gangso and tombs in the villages of Tokhung and Susan.

75 km southwest of the capital there is a rock massif Kuwolsan.This place is distinguished by its beauty . The Samson resort is located here. Tourists will be interested in the medieval Wolyongsa Temple and ancient fortresses. This place features hot springs and small waterfalls, as well as shrines and palaces from the Silla Kingdom and Joseon Dynasty.

The main attractions of the city are: Goryeo Museum, Seongjuk Bridge, Great South Gate, Yeongbok Temple, Hyunghwa and Gwanum Temples, Songin Monument and Pyeochung Monument. A commemorative stele with a facsimile signature of Kim Il Sung is also of interest.

Around the city you can see the tomb of the first king of Goryeo - Wang Gon, the tomb of King Kongmin and the mausoleum of Queen Kongmin. Not far from Kaesong there is a famous town Panmunjom. The Korean War Armistice Agreement was signed in this city during the war. The famous “38th parallel” is located here - the nominal border between North and South Korea. A separate permit is required to visit Panmunjom.

mountain range Myohyang located 150 km north of the capital. These places are famous for their picturesque nature. In addition, there are historical sites in the area. The main one can be called the active Buddhist temple of Pohyeonsa. This temple houses various religious objects and collections of ancient Korean books. The museum of gifts to Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il is quite interesting. In this area you can see the large cave at Ryongmun and the very beautiful Manphok Gorge. The Valley of Nine Waterfalls is also famous. Lovers of outdoor activities and mountaineering come to this place.

Mountains Paektu are one of the most picturesque places in the DPRK. These mountains contain the country's highest peaks: Paeksabon (2103 m), Sobaeksan (2172 m), Paektusan (Baitoushan, 2750 m).

Extinct volcano Baekdusan is located on the border with China. It is the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula. In addition, the local nature attracts tourists with its beauty. This mountain is white due to hardened light pumice. In 1989, Paektusan received the status of an International Biosphere Reserve. Here you can see the giant crater lake Chongji, or Tianchi (“Heavenly Lake”). The lake is located at an altitude of 2194 meters above sea level. The water in the lake is always very cold. This place is sacred to the people of North Korea. It is believed that it was in this place that the son of the God of heaven appeared on Earth. In addition, it is generally accepted that the revolutionary movement of the Korean people originated here. Historians claim that Kim Jong Il was born here on February 16, 1942. At the foot of Mount Paektusan there is an area of ​​three lakes Samzhi. Here you can visit an entire historical complex dedicated to the revolutionary activities of Kim Il Sung.

The Kumgang (Kumgangsan) mountain range is located in the southeast of the country. This place is considered one of the most beautiful in North Korea. This region has an unusual topography with a large number of tiny lakes and waterfalls. There are forests here. Mineral springs, valleys with Buddhist shrines.

Until 1945, Korea was a colony of Japan. When World War II ended, the territory of the country north of the 38th parallel was occupied by the USSR, and the southern part was occupied by America. The USSR and the USA were unable to resolve the issue of Korean unification. For this reason, in 1948, two separate governments appeared here - Soviet and American.
The Republic of Korea was formed in the south of the Korean Peninsula. After this, on September 9, 1948, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) appeared in the north. Political power in the country was monopolized by the WPK. A planned economy was established in the DPRK economy. Since 1949, the state has taken control of almost all of the country's industry, as well as its domestic and foreign trade.
In 1950, North Korea launched an armed attack on South Korea. After this, a war broke out between the two states, in which other countries also took part.
The war dealt a heavy blow to North Korea's economy. Industrialization helped restore it. The standard of living in the DPRK grew even faster than in South Korea.
In 1960, there was a breakdown in relations between the USSR and China. This had a negative impact on the DPRK economy.
In the 70s of the last century, the pace of economic development here slowed down significantly. This was also influenced by the high cost of oil after the 1974 oil crisis. The country began to spend too much money on the army and the development of heavy industry. In 1980, the North Korean economy went into default. The volume of industrial production began to increase only in the early 90s.
Kim Il Sung died in 1994. His son Kim Jong Il came to power in the country. The economic situation in the DPRK continued to remain quite difficult.
In the period from 96 to 99, the country experienced a severe famine, which killed a large number of people. The country continued to spend a lot of money on military needs.
In July 2002, reforms began in the country. There was a devaluation of the state currency. To support the country's agricultural market, it was decided to lower prices for agricultural products. In the villages of the DPRK, collective farming has been replaced by family farming. All this led to an increase in foreign investment in the country's economy.
In 2007, the President of South Korea paid a visit to the DPRK. After this, both Koreas turned to the UN with a request to promote the unification of the countries.

Foreign trade

The DPRK maintains trade relations with more than 100 countries.
The main export items to the DPRK are ferrous and non-ferrous metals, anthracite and seafood.
North Korea imports mainly oil and oil products, coking coal, chemical fertilizers, and food.
The country's main foreign trade partners: South Korea, China, Japan, EU countries and Russia.
North Korea has a fairly large external debt.

Stores

Prices in the country are quite high; foreign tourists can only pay in foreign currency. In the DPRK foreign exchange stores, the cost of goods is also not low. The selection of goods is small. Prices in all stores in the country are fixed, they are the same throughout the DPRK. Tourists can only bargain at street markets, but they won’t be able to get a big discount. Typically the cost is reduced by no more than 10%. You need to bargain very politely.

Very popular among tourists hand embroidery. Such things are expensive. Even an experienced craftsman takes about a year to embroider a large canvas. You can buy paintings in souvenir shops. These paintings are almost no different from Chinese landscapes, but they cost much more.

Very often tourists buy famous ginseng and products made from it. Traditional porcelain from Kaesong is popular. Herbal and mushroom teas, bear bile, stamps, and commemorative coins with images of leaders are sold. You can buy printed products, wood and stone carvings.

The official holiday in North Korea is Sunday.

Demography

The ethnic composition of the population is quite homogeneous.

The life expectancy of the country's population as a whole is
71.65 years old. Life expectancy for men is 68.92 years, for women - 74.51 years.

The fertility rate is 2.1 newborns per woman.

Industry

In the DPRK, the share of industrial production in the country's GDP is about 50%. This industry employs up to 40% of the country's population. In recent years, production has declined slightly in all major industries.

The country is developing such industries as oil refining, chemical, textile and food.

Mechanical engineering accounts for about 30% of the value of all industrial products. The DPRK produces locally assembled Fiat cars and also produces jeeps.

Flora and fauna

The mountainous regions of the DPRK are covered with coniferous forests and mixed forests. The main species here are pine, spruce, Korean fir, maple, poplar, elm and aspen. Rice, soybeans, barley, corn and beans are grown in the valleys.

A large number of medicinal plants grow in the DPRK. The most famous of them is ginseng, which is sold for export to many countries around the world.

The country is home to such large predators as: tiger, leopard, bear (Ussuri and white-breasted), lynx and wolf. Common birds here are: eagle, snipe, crane, heron, pheasant, black grouse and hazel grouse.

The forests are inhabited by foxes, wild boars, gorals, roe deer, sika deer, wapiti, weasels, otters, and squirrels.

There are many different species of birds found in the coastal areas of the DPRK. Here live: passerines, herons, cranes, storks, geese, ducks, waders, gulls, cormorants, razorbills, guillemots and guillemots.

The country's coastal and inland waters are rich in a variety of fish and other seafood.

Banks and money

There are no direct flights from Russia to North Korea. Transport links between North Korea and other countries are quite rare. The national airline Air Koryo operates twice-weekly flights from Pyongyang to Beijing, China. One flight in the same direction is operated by the Chinese company Air China.
You can also get to North Korea from Russia by rail. Every week a trailer train runs from Moscow to Pyongyang. The train goes through China, the journey time is six and a half days. For such a trip you must obtain a transit visa. The same train includes carriages from Novosibirsk and Krasnoyarsk.

Minerals

The country is quite rich in mineral resources. Natural resources such as coal, lead, tungsten, zinc and graphite are mined here. Magnesium, iron, copper, gold, pyrite, salt, fluorspar, etc. are also mined.

Agriculture

North Korea's agriculture accounts for about 20% of the country's income. The country is dominated by mountainous terrain, which leads to a shortage of land resources. The total area of ​​agricultural land is about 20% of the total territory of the country. Arable land occupies only 16%.
On average, one resident of the DPRK has 0.12 hectares of cultivated land. This is several times less than in almost all European countries.
The basis of the country's agriculture is crop production. The following crops are grown here: soybeans, cotton, flax, tobacco and sugar beets. There are also ginseng plantations in the country. The cultivation of vegetables and fruits is quite well developed.
The basis of livestock farming in the DPRK is the breeding of cattle, pigs, and poultry. Sericulture is also developed here. Fish and other seafood are actively harvested.

The country's authorities are quite intensively developing and supporting traditional forms of art and culture. Quite often they can even be intertwined with official ideology.

The country does not officially celebrate the usual Christmas and New Year. All traditional holidays of the DPRK are celebrated according to the lunar calendar. The main ones are: the First Full Moon Festival and the Chuseok Festival. The latter is dedicated to harvesting and commemorating deceased ancestors. On this day, it is customary to visit the graves of ancestors, performing the ritual of sacrifice there.

The main official holidays of the country are: May Day and Independence Day. On these days, parades and festive performances take place throughout the country.

Children are also very important members of society. It is customary to get married quite late in the country. They always try to dress children as best and brightly as possible. The government organizes many activities for children. It is not customary to punish children; they are given great independence.

Citizens of the DPRK greet each other with a slight half-bow. Handshakes are also common, with both hands. It is not customary to look directly into the eyes of your interlocutor. It is absolutely not customary in the country to apologize. It’s not often that you hear words of gratitude here. Gifts are usually simply left at the entrance to the house. No need to thank the service staff.

The people of the DPRK are very hardworking. They are used to working even in the most difficult working conditions. They are also distinguished by their love for cleanliness and order. Every morning, volunteers clean up the city streets.

Traditionally, Koreans sit, eat and sleep on the floor. When entering a house, you must always take off your shoes. You cannot stand on the threshold to prevent evil spirits from entering. You should not be bare-legged in the presence of elders.

Traditionally, Koreans eat a lot of rice, noodles, and seafood. They drink little, and local vodka or fruit liqueurs are always served at the table. Beer is very popular. You cannot appear in public places drunk.

Korean restaurants usually offer something like a set menu right away. There are usually no menus in restaurants; there is a special sign hanging on the wall. There are problems with transliterating Korean names and proper names into Russian and English.

Traditional Korean music is vaguely reminiscent of Chinese and Japanese. The main instruments here are strings, drums and percussion. Household choral singing is very popular. Fine arts are also quite well developed here. It includes a special school of landscape painting and traditional calligraphy.

It is customary to dress very modestly in the country. Most often, local residents wear paramilitary clothing. Sometimes traditional national clothes are worn. The feet are usually worn in cloth slippers with rubber soles. European costume is used only on special occasions. To visit the Kim Il Sung Mausoleum and memorial cemeteries, you need to dress brightly. It is considered indecent for women to wear trousers in public places.

Men and women usually cut their hair quite short. Elderly people wear long hair, which is collected in a braid and placed at the back of the head.

North Korea has a very low crime rate. Local law enforcement is everywhere. The attitude towards foreigners in the country is somewhat wary. Tourists are usually accompanied by a special guide. He makes sure that the tourist does not break the laws and ensures the safety of the tourist himself.

There are some restrictions on movement around the country. Tourists should not go into the city without a guide. The guide is responsible for preparing the route, menu, and meeting times. It is not recommended to have long conversations with local residents. It is prohibited to photograph military personnel and any objects even remotely related to defense (airports, bridges, aqueducts, bases, ports, etc.). You can only photograph ordinary people with their permission.

Healthcare

It is best for all tourists to take out international medical insurance. No special vaccinations are required to travel to the DPRK. However, you should be very wary of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, hepatitis B and E, tuberculosis, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and dengue.

Tourists are advised to bring personal hygiene items and an individual first aid kit. This first aid kit must contain all the medications necessary to provide first aid. You should also take medicine for colds and stomach upsets with you.

Almost all major hotels in the DPRK have their own medical center with the necessary supply of medications. In case of serious illness, the patient will be sent to clinics in the capital: Korean Red Cross Hospital, Pyongyang Emergency Hospital, Pyongyang Hospital for Foreigners and Kim Mann Yu Hospital. There may be problems with evacuation from the DPRK by air.

All tap water in North Korea is chlorinated. However, it cannot be consumed raw. For drinking, brushing your teeth or making ice, it is best to use only boiled or bottled water.

Milk and dairy products are most often not pasteurized. It is recommended to heat them before use. The same applies to meat, fish and seafood. Vegetables and fruits can be consumed only after pre-treatment. Fruits are best peeled.

The level of solar radiation in the country is quite high. Tourists should wear sunglasses with glass filters, hats and light protective clothing.

Avoid swimming during tidal currents and surf.

The subsoil of the Republic of Korea is rich in various minerals. These include deposits of coal, ores (uranium, manganese, iron, gold-silver, copper and others), as well as reserves of non-metallic mineral resources. But the explored and actively exploited deposits of most of South Korea's minerals are small.

Fossil fuel extraction

The Republic of Korea's fossil fuels include coal. The majority of mined coals are anthracite. The main anthracite deposits are located in the central part of the country, near the Taedong River, as well as in the East Korean mountains.

• In the western region of Gyeongsangbuk-do there is the Mungyong deposit,
• Jeollanam-do - "Hwasun"
• Chuncheonnam-do - "Gimpo"
• Gyeonggido - "Chunnam"
• Gyeongsangbuk-do - "Wagwan".

On the territory of the state in the southeastern region there are deposits of brown coal "Ulsan", "Yonil", as well as the "Gilju-Mengcheon" basin on the northeastern coast. The main developments are carried out by the state company Dai Han Coal Corp., as well as minor private firms (Tangseoung, Dogyl and others). Half of the coal is enriched at three state-owned plants, the rest is briquetted.

Ore Minerals of Korea

Iron ore. There are iron ore deposits on the territory of the republic. Over 90% of all reserves have been explored in the north of the Korean Peninsula. The largest mine is Yangyang in Gangwon Province, which is owned by Sammi Mining and Development Co. and Daihan Iron Mining Co. There are also the Mulgym and Ulsan deposits (Gyeongsangnam-do).

Uranus. Uranium ores are located in the Yangpyeong-Kapyeong basin in the Gyeongsang depression. Since 1978, a factory has been operating on the territory, which produces enriched uranium.

Manganese. Small reserves of manganese are located in Gyeongju, Yonghwa, and Jeongseon.

Tungsten. There are 100 small enterprises on the peninsula that specialize in tungsten mining. The main share is concentrated in one of the largest basins, Sandong (Gangwon-do). The state-owned enterprise Korea Tungsten Mining Co is responsible for production.
Copper. All copper deposits are insignificant, mostly complex. These include the copper-gold source "Kunbuk" (Gyeongsangnam-do), the lead-zinc source "Siheung" (Gyeonggi-do). Large nickel-copper deposits are located in the northeast of the country and near the city of Jeonju. There is also the Talsong copper-tungsten mine (Gyeongsangbuk-do).

Molybdenum. There are small molybdenum reserves in Jeollanam-do ("Oksan"), Chungcheong-buk-do ("Suni"), Jeollabuk-do ("Changsu"), Gangwon-do ("Chechon"), Gyeongsang-nam-do ("Gochang"). And the main enterprise for the production of molybdenum concentrate is "Korea Tangsten Mining Co".

Precious metals. Gold and silver deposits in the northwest and south are important. There are about 300 of them. Most of it is mined by the Korea Mining and Smelting Co corporation. Gold is found almost everywhere. The largest center is located near the Amnokkan Highlands. There are also deposits on the territory of the state:

1. Nickel (Khonson, Kopyun).
2. Lead and zinc (Gyeonggi-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
3. Bismuth (Pyongyong, Jeonju).
4. Antimony (Myeongdong, Cheonan).
5. Tin (Samchun).
6. Cobalt (Lay, Gyeongsang).

The extraction and enrichment of lead and zinc is carried out by the company "Young Poong Mining Co". The leading producer of bismuth concentrate is Korea Tungsten Mining Co.

Nonmetallic natural resources

Non-metallic (non-metallic) minerals of Korea are represented by graphite. It was explored in the North Korean mountains, in the province of North Chungcheon. It is mined by Shi Heung Graphite Mining Co.

The peninsula also has large deposits of fluorite, talc, asbestos, kaolin, and alunite. Srana is rich in limestone, brick clay, gravel, agalmatolite, diatomite, quartzite, and quartz sand.

The region has a large pool of kaolin - this is "Hadon" (Gyeongsangnam-do), asbestos - "Gwancheon" (Chungcheongnamdo region). Quartzite is mined in Changcheong-dong, Chungju.

South Korea's mineral resources have been explored to such an extent that they are not enough to satisfy the demand of the country's industrial industry. This applies to fuel, ore and non-metallic raw materials. However, despite this, the state was able to achieve a high level of socio-economic development. South Korea's undeveloped reserves could provide the country with jobs and additional income for a long time.