North Korea

North Korea claims to provide free universal healthcare, but reports indicate shortages of medicines, equipment, and trained personnel, leading to poor quality of care.

There is no functioning health insurance system; healthcare is state-funded.

North Korea (DPRK) does not have an immigration system or long-term residency pathways for foreign nationals. It is one of the most isolated and controlled countries in the world. Foreign presence is strictly limited to diplomats, a very small number of staff from international organizations like the UN, and highly controlled tourist groups (when travel is permitted). There are no provisions for independent travel, work, retirement, or investment for the average individual.

All foreign nationals in the country are under constant supervision, and their movements are heavily restricted. The concept of applying for residency is non-existent. The score of 1 reflects the complete absence of any accessible or predictable system.

There is no pathway to permanent residency or citizenship for foreign nationals in North Korea. The country's laws on nationality are based exclusively on descent and do not have provisions for naturalization of foreigners. The idea of an expat becoming a permanent resident or citizen is legally and practically impossible.

Crime Rate: Unknown. North Korea is a closed society with limited information available.

Types of Crime: Information not available.

Kidnapping Risk: Unknown; information is limited.

No US-North Korea relations. Taxation data unavailable.

Retirement by foreigners is virtually non-existent due to political isolation.

Data unavailable. Not feasible for US retirees.

North Korea experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are long and cold, while summers are short and warm with most of the annual precipitation occurring during this time.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

• North Korea has several state-run museums, including the Korean Central History Museum in Pyongyang, showcasing the country's history and culture.

• The Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum in Pyongyang offers exhibits on the Korean War from the North Korean perspective.

Performing Arts

• North Korea has a state-controlled performing arts scene, with performances held during national holidays and events.

• The Moranbong Band is a prominent all-female musical group in North Korea, known for their performances at state events.

Cultural Festivals

• The Arirang Mass Games is a large-scale gymnastics and artistic performance held in Pyongyang, showcasing North Korean culture and ideology.

• The Day of the Sun, celebrating the birth of Kim Il-sung, is marked with various cultural performances and events.

Culinary Culture

• North Korean cuisine includes dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and cold noodles.

• The country's cuisine reflects its Korean heritage and available local ingredients.

North Korea has extremely limited internet access with government-controlled infrastructure and restricted connectivity.

Speed & Quality: Minimal internet access for general population, with government-controlled speeds and content.

Availability: Virtually no public internet access, limited to government officials and select institutions.

Cost: Not applicable for general population due to restricted access.

Reliability for Remote Work: Not suitable for remote work due to extremely limited and controlled internet access.

North Korea has a state-controlled transportation system with limited access for civilians and international isolation.

Roads: Road network exists but private car ownership is extremely limited.

Rail: Extensive rail network serving the country, primarily for state-approved transport.

Domestic Travel: Very limited domestic flights; most approved transport is by state-controlled trains and buses.