About the author
More articles by 'Seonghyeon'
Ask a North Korean: How common are extramarital affairs?
Strict rules that discourage divorce by party officials have the side effect of encouraging infidelity
Ask a North Korean: Do North Koreans have different regional accents?
Authorities insist everyone speak standardized language, but people actually use a range of slang, profanity and accents
Ask a North Korean: How much crime is there in the DPRK?
Theft and other crime occurs in North Korea like any other country, but the state is selective in what it punishes
Settling in Seoul: How a North Korean defector found a second family on Chuseok
The joy of the holiday mingles with sadness of family separation for those who can’t visit hometowns and loved ones
Ask a North Korean: How do you buy contraception in North Korea?
The lack of sex education in the country means many have little knowledge about how to prevent pregnancy
Ask a North Korean: How do North Koreans stay cool in the summer heat?
Special foods and solar-powered fans are common remedies, and even soldiers will take siestas on hottest days
Ask a North Korean: What superstitions and urban myths exist in North Korea?
The state has failed to fully root out folk beliefs, which range from wedding rituals to tall tales about Kim Il Sung
Settling in Seoul: The best and worst aspects of life as a North Korean defector
Separation from family and fast pace of life in South are challenging, but freedom from want and fear are irreplaceable
Ask a North Korean: What is the process for getting a loan in North Korea?
While the national bank does not provide loans, there are other ways to borrow money for business endeavors
Ask a North Korean: Is it possible to get plastic surgery in North Korea?
Double eyelid surgery and cosmetic tattoos are popular, but such illegal medical procedures carry serious risks
Get the Daily Update & Podcast Updates
Start your day with
the North Korea stories that matter most –
as selected by 
