North Korea opens dozen barbecue restaurants in push to promote meat | NK News
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October 15, 2026Oct 15, 2026

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North Korea opens dozen barbecue restaurants in push to promote meat

Spree of openings seeks to showcase Kim Jong Un’s concern for people in a country where beef remains a luxury

North Korea has opened a dozen new barbecue restaurants across the country in recent weeks, according to state media, part of a propaganda campaign aimed at promoting meat availability and the regime’s concern for people’s welfare.

The restaurants specializing in “bulgogi,” a traditional Korean marinated meat, have reportedly debuted in 12 cities, with the first unveiled on Sept. 7 in Kanggye, Jagang Province.

The most recent opening was in the northeastern port city of Rason on Oct. 9, a day before the 81st founding anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK).

Others have opened in Phyongsong,

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