March 8 marks International Women’s Day, a holiday promoting women’s rights that is celebrated around the world — even in North Korea. In fact, Pyongyang’s leadership places significant importance on the holiday, simultaneously honoring women’s achievements and encouraging their ongoing dedication to national development.

These celebrations typically feature cultural performances and recognize women whose work is particularly valuable to the state. Last year, women from around the country gathered at the People’s Palace of Culture in Pyongyang to mark the occasion.

Yet despite these public celebrations, the actual experience of North Korean women differs dramatically from official portrayals, as the