About the author
More articles by 'Joshua Kim'
Ask a North Korean: What is it like to serve in North Korea’s army reserves?
All men must enlist in local forces in case of the outbreak of war, and training is often brutal and unpredictable
Ask a North Korean: What are self-criticism sessions really like?
Joshua Kim explains why citizens must criticize themselves and others and gives an example of what this looks like
Ask a North Korean: Are alcoholism and drunk driving major problems in the DPRK?
The regime treats drinking as a ‘political cancer,’ but alcohol is the only way for many to escape their harsh reality
Ask a North Korean: Why are there so many farms raising the slippery loach fish?
The mudfish is a key income source for many, but the state promotes such aquaculture even in ill-suited environments
Ask a North Korean: What was it like to travel abroad for the first time?
Joshua Kim writes about marveling at Incheon airport, how Vietnam reminded him of the DPRK and more
Ask a North Korean: What are popular sayings and proverbs in the DPRK?
Everyday expressions offer a window into how North Koreans think and see the world
Ask a North Korean: How did you learn to use a computer?
Schools provide limited computer education to most students, and buying one requires submitting to strict state controls
Ask a North Korean: Were you exposed to outside information in the DPRK?
Unapproved information reaches most corners of North Korea through fliers, radio broadcasts and even shark balloons
Ask a North Korean: What’s the restaurant scene like in the DPRK?
Few outside the capital can afford to eat out, while the most popular eateries are run out of people’s homes
Ask a North Korean: How common are extramarital affairs?
Strict rules that discourage divorce by party officials have the side effect of encouraging infidelity
