March 29, 2024
News

Why Kim Jong Un held a banquet at Pyongyang’s biggest hotel for foreigners

North Korea travel experts express surprise at use of Yanggakdo Hotel, formerly the main accommodation for tourists

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended a banquet to celebrate army foundation day on Tuesday, state media showed, but while the presence of his daughter attracted most attention, perhaps the most curious thing about the event was the venue itself.

While official reports described the venue as “lodging quarters of general officers of the Korean People's Army (KPA),” NK News analysis of photos show the banquet took place at Pyongyang’sYanggakdo Hotel — a facility located on an island in the Taedong River most well known for accommodating foreign visitors to the country.

Become a member for less than $4 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.