North Korea

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, is a country located in East Asia. It is situated in the northern part of the Korean Peninsula and is bordered by China to the north and Russia to the northeast, as well as South Korea to the south.

North Korea’s road network is primarily made up of two types of roads: highways and local roads. The total length of the road network in North Korea is estimated to be around 31,200 kilometers, of which approximately 3,000 kilometers are paved. The country also has a number of expressways that connect major cities, including the Pyongyang-Kaesong Motorway, the Chongjin-Hoeryong Expressway, and the Pyongyang-Wonsan Expressway.

In addition to its paved roads, North Korea has a vast network of unpaved roads and gravel tracks that are often used by 4×4 vehicles. These roads can be challenging to navigate, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure is limited. Visitors should exercise caution when driving on these roads and should consider using a local guide or hiring a driver familiar with the area.

Walking, cycling, and hiking are popular activities in North Korea, particularly in the mountainous regions of the country. The Paektu Mountain Range, located in the northern part of the country, is a popular destination for hikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Topographical maps from GarminWorldmaps can be useful for those planning a hiking or trekking trip in North Korea, as they provide detailed information about the terrain and elevation of the area.

It is important to note that travel to North Korea is heavily restricted, and visitors must obtain a special permit to enter the country. In addition, visitors must be accompanied by a government-approved tour guide at all times and are not permitted to travel independently. Anyone considering travel to North Korea should consult with their embassy or travel agency for the latest information and travel advisories.