In the heart of Pyongyang, the capital of the world's most isolated country, some well-off individuals are eager to experience Western-style living.
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| Streets in downtown Pyongyang. Cafes, bars, gyms, entertainment centers... are rapidly springing up in the North Korean capital. Photo: Reuters. |
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| Wealthy North Koreans are increasingly demanding when it comes to food, and they are particularly curious about foreign dishes. Earlier this year, the Washington Post described a high-end restaurant in Pyongyang selling everything from Australian beef to Norwegian salmon, all at exorbitant prices. Pictured is Italy Pizza, currently Pyongyang's most popular pizza restaurant, where pizzas cost around $8 each. Photo: Getty. |
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| Traditional Hanbok remains the popular attire for North Korean women at formal events; however, Western-style clothing is increasingly preferred. Photo: Washington Post. |
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| Kim Jong-un's wife, Ri Sol-ju, also frequently appears in form-fitting Western-style dresses. Many observers believe that Ri Sol-ju's fashion style has "given the green light" for many North Korean women to wear brighter and more fashionable colors. Meanwhile, mid-range foreign brands like H&M, Uniqlo, and Zara are popular among young people, who will seek out these brands when they have the opportunity to travel abroad. The photo shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his wife in a luxury store at Pyongyang International Airport. Photo: Reuters. |
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| Entertainment and sports centers are also flourishing in Pyongyang, with gyms and tennis courts springing up. Pictured is Munsu Water Park, where staff say around 5,000 people visit daily. Photo: AP. |
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| The Mirim Horse Racing Club, a half-hour drive from downtown Pyongyang, currently owns around 120 horses. North Koreans pay $8-10 per hour to ride the horses there or to have wedding photos taken. Photo: AFP. |
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| North Koreans watch dolphins at the Rungna Dolphin Show in Pyongyang. Photo: AP |
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| Masikryong ski resort in Kangwon Province boasts luxurious accommodations, a sauna, a swimming pool, and internet access... Photo: Getty. |
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| A long line of Mercedes-Benz cars is parked in front of the Pyongyang People's Cultural Palace. Photo: Washington Post. |
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| A panoramic view of downtown Pyongyang, with the 105-story Ryugyong Hotel at the center. Photo: Washington Post. |
According to Zing.vn
