North Korea, known for its strict authoritarian regime and isolation from the rest of the world, has some of the most bizarre and oppressive laws ever documented. These regulations reflect the extent to which the government controls its citizens and restricts basic freedoms. Below is a list of 21 shocking laws and practices in North Korea that reveal the harsh reality of life under Kim Jong-un’s rule.

1. Foreign Media is Forbidden

Watching foreign movies or listening to foreign music is a punishable offense. In some cases, it can lead to imprisonment or even execution. In 2015, Kim Jong-un ordered the destruction of all cassette tapes and CDs with state-banned content.

2. International Calls are a Crime

Making international phone calls is illegal. In 2007, a factory boss was executed in front of 150,000 people for making unauthorized international calls.

3. Disloyalty to the Leader Means Death

Any act considered disloyal to Kim Jong-un can result in execution. In 2015, a defense minister was executed for allegedly falling asleep during a meeting with the leader.

4. Three-Generation Punishment

If a person is found guilty of a crime, their entire family—including parents and children—faces punishment. This policy ensures obedience and deters dissent.

5. Government-Approved Hairstyles Only

Citizens can choose from only 28 government-approved hairstyles. Kim Jong-un’s distinctive hairstyle is not among them, as it is reserved exclusively for him.

6. Modified Basketball Rules

North Korea’s basketball games follow unique rules, such as awarding three points for a slam dunk and deducting points for missed free throws.

7. Permission Required to Live in Pyongyang

Living in the capital city, Pyongyang requires special government approval. Only the elite are allowed to reside there.

8. Students Must Buy Their Furniture

Students are required to purchase their desks and chairs for school. School fees do not cover these costs.

9. Bibles are Banned

Owning or distributing Bibles is forbidden as they are seen as symbols of Western influence. In one case, a woman was executed for distributing copies of the Bible.

10. No Access to Modern Electronics

North Koreans cannot own devices such as iPhones or laptops from foreign brands. The isolation policy ensures citizens have limited exposure to modern technology.

11. Strict Customs Inspections

Tourists must undergo rigorous inspections at customs. All media, books, and personal devices are thoroughly checked.

12. Political Prison Camps

Around 200,000 North Koreans are held in labor camps for alleged political crimes. Many prisoners die from malnutrition or harsh working conditions.

13. A Unique Calendar System

North Korea uses the Juche calendar, which starts in 1912, the birth year of Kim Il-sung, the country’s founding leader.

14. Elections With One Candidate

While elections are held, there is only one candidate on the ballot. Citizens must vote, ensuring a 100% turnout and unanimous support for the ruling party.

15. Eternal Leadership of Kim Il-sung

Although Kim Il-sung passed away in 1994, he remains the “Eternal President” of North Korea. His successors rule as his representatives.

16. Marijuana is Unregulated

Ironically, while other laws are extremely strict, marijuana is not considered a drug and grows freely along roadsides.

17. Insulting Kim Jong-un is Blasphemy

Criticism of Kim Jong-un or his family is considered blasphemy and is severely punished, even for tourists.

18. Citizens Cannot Leave the Country

North Koreans are prohibited from traveling abroad. Those who attempt to flee face execution and their families may also be punished.

19. Tourists Are Closely Monitored

Government-assigned guides always accompany tourists. Independent travel or interaction with locals is strictly forbidden.

20. Mandatory Military Service

Men must serve 10 years in the military, while women are required to serve for 7 years. This policy is among the longest conscription terms in the world.

21. Nightly Power Outages

The country faces regular power outages due to an energy crisis. Owning appliances like microwaves requires special permission.

Final Thoughts

North Korea’s laws exemplify the extreme control exercised by the regime over every aspect of its citizens’ lives. From censorship to restricted movement, these regulations reveal the high cost of living under totalitarian rule.

Would you like to explore other countries with unusual laws? Let us know in the comments!