December 07, 2023
News

North Korean elites tee off at golf event despite country’s economic woes

Tournament underscores regime’s efforts to cater to wealthy and ‘keep up appearances’ through luxury sport, expert says

North Korea’s only 18-hole golf course in operation hosted a tournament for “enthusiasts” of the game this week, according to state media, in what one expert called the regime’s latest effort to keep the country’s elite happy. 

The state-owned Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Friday that the finals of the Autumn Golf Enthusiasts’ Game took place at the Pyongyang Golf Course on Oct. 19 and 20, with the winners receiving trophies, certificates and other prizes.