Bribery and broken dreams: What it's like to learn to drive in North Korea | NK News
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September 28, 2026Sep 28, 2026

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Ask A North Korean

Bribery and broken dreams: What it’s like to learn to drive in North Korea

Getting a driver’s license to begin with in North Korea takes a lot of time; there are only two driving academies nationwide

Every week we ask a North Korean your questions, giving you the chance to learn more about the country we know so little about.

This week Brent from San Francisco asks:

I know there are not very many cars in North Korea, but what is the driving situation like? Do young teens dream of getting their drivers licenses? Is there a DMV?

This question immediately reminded me of a person that I have never stopped missing since I left North Korea — my younger brother who is still there. When he was six years old, he said he wanted to