Souvenirs & What to Buy in Pyongyang, Korea, North
1. Kwangbok Supermarket Souvenirs
A unique state-run department store offering a variety of North Korean goods like local snacks, postcards, and traditional artworks. It's one of the few places where foreigners can buy goods with local currency.
- Local Currency: Purchase items using local North Korean Won
- Authentic Goods: Buy authentic North Korean goods, not mass-produced for tourists
- State-Run Store: Shop at a state-run department store in the heart of Pyongyang
2. Kumsusan Memorial Palace Souvenirs
A collection of souvenirs related to Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il's life, including books, portraits, and replicas of their personal items. A must-visit for those interested in North Korean history.
- Historical Items: Purchase historical items related to the leaders of North Korea
- Memorial Site: Buy souvenirs at a memorial site dedicated to the leadership
- Limited Availability: Find items that may be limited in availability or unique to this location
3. Pyongyang Kimchi
Traditional North Korean kimchi made from locally grown vegetables and seasoned with a unique blend of spices. A must-try for food lovers.
- Local Ingredients: Experience authentic North Korean kimchi made with local ingredients
- Unique Recipe: Try a unique recipe of kimchi that differs from South Korea's version
- Culinary Souvenir: Bring home a piece of North Korean culture through its famous food
4. Mansudae Art Studio Artworks
Beautiful paintings and sculptures created by the renowned Mansudae Art Studio. These artworks often depict scenes from North Korean history or idealized images of its leaders.
- Renowned Studio: Purchase artwork from a studio known for its high-quality productions
- Historical Themes: Choose artwork that reflects North Korean history or ideals
- Limited Edition: Possibility of buying a limited edition piece from the studio
5. Ryugyong Hotel Model
A miniature model of the unfinished Ryugyong Hotel, an iconic symbol of Pyongyang. It makes a great souvenir for architectural enthusiasts.
- Architectural Model: Purchase a detailed model of the iconic Ryugyong Hotel
- Iconic Symbol: Collect a piece symbolizing Pyongyang's skyline
- Unfinished Structure: Remind yourself of the hotel's unique, incomplete history
6. Pyongyang Taedonggang Liquor
A traditional North Korean liquor made from wheat or rice. It's a popular gift and can be found in various flavors.
- Traditional Beverage: Experience a traditional North Korean alcoholic beverage
- Variety of Flavors: Choose from different flavors of Taedonggang Liquor
- Gift-Worthy: Find a suitable gift for friends or family back home
7. Pyongyang Metro Postcards
Postcards featuring the unique and efficient Pyongyang Metro. They make great keepsakes for travelers.
- Unique Transportation: Capture the essence of Pyongyang's metro system on postcards
- Keepsake: Create a memento of your journey through Pyongyang Metro
- Efficient Infrastructure: Remind yourself of the well-organized metro system in Pyongyang
8. Miguk Poch'onch'i
A traditional Korean embroidered handkerchief made by the Miguk cooperative. It's a beautiful example of North Korean craftsmanship.
- Handmade Craft: Purchase a beautifully embroidered handkerchief, handmade by local artisans
- Korean Embroidery: Experience the intricate and detailed Korean embroidery style
- Cooperative Product: Support a local cooperative with your purchase
9. Pyongyang Stamp Collection
A collection of stamps showcasing various North Korean themes such as landscapes, architecture, and historical events. A great addition for stamp enthusiasts.
- Stamp Collection: Build a unique collection of North Korean stamps
- North Korean Themes: Find stamps depicting various aspects of North Korea's culture and history
- Souvenir for Enthusiasts: A perfect souvenir for stamp enthusiasts back home
10. Pyongyang Porcelain
Beautiful porcelain items such as plates, bowls, and vases, made using traditional North Korean techniques. They make elegant souvenirs.
- Traditional Techniques: Purchase porcelain items crafted using centuries-old techniques
- Elegant Designs: Choose from a variety of elegant and intricate designs
- Durability: Invest in items that are both beautiful and durable
11. Tongmyongwon Tea
A traditional North Korean tea made from various herbs and leaves. It's known for its medicinal properties and unique flavor.
- Medicinal Properties: Experience a tea with potential health benefits
- Unique Flavor: Taste the distinctive flavor of Tongmyongwon Tea
- Herbal Infusion: Enjoy a cup of herbal tea blended with local ingredients
12. Mangyongdae Native House Model
A miniature model of the Mangyongdae Native House, where Kim Il-sung was born. It serves as a reminder of the leader's humble beginnings.
- Historical Site: Purchase a model from a significant historical site
- Miniature Model: Collect a detailed miniature of Kim Il-sung's birthplace
- Humble Origins: Remind yourself of the leader's humble origins and upbringing
13. Pyongyang Tobacco
A selection of North Korean cigarettes and tobacco products. They are unique to the region and make interesting souvenirs.
- Regional Product: Purchase a regional tobacco product that's not widely available
- Cigarette Selection: Choose from various North Korean cigarette brands
- Tobacco Souvenir: Bring home a unique tobacco souvenir for yourself or a friend
14. Pyongyang Silk Artworks
Beautiful silk artworks and fabrics produced in North Korea. They are known for their intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship.
- Intricate Designs: Choose from exquisite silk artworks featuring intricate designs
- Quality Craftsmanship: Invest in items that showcase the skill of North Korean artisans
- Luxury Souvenir: Find a luxurious silk souvenir to take home
15. Pyongyang Kimjongilia Flower
The Kimjongilia flower is a hybrid carnation named after Kim Jong-il. It's only found in North Korea and makes a unique souvenir.
- Rare Flower: Purchase a flower that can only be found in North Korea
- Memorial Item: Collect a floral tribute to Kim Jong-il's legacy
- Souvenir Plant: Bring home a living souvenir in the form of a flowering plant