
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Nampo, Korea, North
1. Mansudae Grand Monument
Gigantic bronze statues of the North Korean leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il facing the sea.
- Giant Sculptures: The statues are larger than life size, standing at 22 meters tall.
- Symbol of Respect: Visitors are required to bow in front of the statues as a sign of respect.
- Unusual Landmark: The monument is not just a statue, but a symbol of North Korea's leadership and ideology.
2. Ryomyong Street Underground Shopping Mall
The world's deepest underground department store, located in Ryomyong Street.
- Depth: The mall is situated 40 meters below ground level.
- Luxury Goods: Offers a variety of high-end luxury goods and local products.
- Safety Measures: Includes extensive emergency exits and safety measures due to its underground location.
3. Taedong Gate Zoo
A zoo housing a diverse range of animals in a park-like setting, near Taedong River.
- Rare Species: Home to several rare and endangered species.
- Korean Fauna: Focuses on native Korean animals as well as exotic species.
- Peaceful Environment: The zoo is set in a peaceful, park-like environment, offering a tranquil escape.
4. Mangyongdae Revolutionary School
A school where Kim Il-sung attended as a child, now turned into a museum.
- Historical Significance: The site holds great historical importance being associated with the founder of North Korea.
- Museum Tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of the school and learn about Kim Il-sung's life.
- Educational Exhibits: The museum houses educational exhibits about the North Korean revolution.
5. Pyongyang Metro Art Gallery
An underground art gallery found within the Pyongyang metro system.
- Unique Location: The gallery is located deep beneath the ground, inside the metro stations.
- North Korean Art: Features a collection of North Korean art and propaganda posters.
- Metro Ride Experience: Visitors can combine their tour with a ride on the unique, ornate Pyongyang Metro.
6. Mausoleum of General Kim Il-sung
A mausoleum dedicated to Kim Il-sung, founder of North Korea, located on the outskirts of Pyongyang.
- National Hero: The mausoleum is a place of national importance, honoring Kim Il-sung.
- Strict Protocol: Visitors are required to follow strict dress codes and behavioral guidelines.
- Architectural Marvel: The mausoleum is a stunning architectural marvel, with a gleaming bronze statue of Kim Il-sung inside.
7. Ryugyong Hotel
A never-completed, unfinished hotel in the center of Pyongyang.
- Architectural Puzzle: The hotel has been under construction since 1987 and remains unfinished.
- Unique Design: The hotel's unique, pyramid-like structure is a distinctive feature of the Pyongyang skyline.
- Urban Exploration: Visitors can explore the partially finished interior on guided tours.
8. Pyongyang Spring Water Park
An indoor water park located in Pyongyang, offering a range of water activities year-round.
- Indoor Facilities: The park is enclosed and operates regardless of the weather.
- Water Activities: Includes water slides, wave pools, and other aquatic attractions.
- Local Culture Integration: The park is integrated with local culture, featuring North Korean music and performances.
9. Kumsusan Palace of the Sun
A mausoleum housing the embalmed bodies of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il.
- National Sanctuary: The palace is considered a national sanctuary, honoring the two leaders.
- Strict Protocol: Visitors must follow strict rules of conduct and dress codes.
- Architectural Grandeur: The palace is an architectural marvel, featuring intricate murals and ornate decorations.
10. Kim Jong-suk Birth House
A museum dedicated to Kim Jong-suk, the mother of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-un.
- Historical Importance: The museum offers insights into the life of a key figure in North Korean history.
- Preserved Memories: The house has been preserved as it was when Kim Jong-suk lived there.
- Guided Tour: Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about her life and contributions.
11. Mansudae Art Studio
A famous art studio producing many of North Korea's propaganda posters.
- Propaganda Art Production: The studio is the primary producer of North Korean propaganda posters.
- Artistic Skill: Artists display exceptional skill in their craftsmanship.
- Unique Perspective: Visitors can gain a unique perspective on North Korean ideology and culture.
12. Taedonggang Beer Brewery
A famous brewery located in Pyongyang, producing the popular Taedonggang beer.
- Historical Significance: The brewery has been operating since the Korean War era.
- Tour and Tasting: Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and sample the locally-brewed beer.
- Local Pride: The Taedonggang beer is a source of local pride and can be found throughout North Korea.
13. Korean War Veterans Tower
A towering monument dedicated to Korean war veterans located in Pyongyang.
- Military Tribute: The tower honors the sacrifices of Korean war veterans.
- Panoramic Views: Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Pyongyang from the top of the tower.
- Symbol of Courage: The tower serves as a symbol of courage and resilience during the Korean War.
14. Pothonggang Ferris Wheel
A large ferris wheel located near the Taedong River in Pyongyang.
- Panoramic Views: Offers panoramic views of Pyongyang, including the Taedong River and nearby landmarks.
- Entertainment Venue: Serves as a popular entertainment venue for both locals and visitors.
- Evening Illumination: The wheel is beautifully illuminated during the evening, creating a breathtaking sight.
15. Mangyongdae Revolutionary Site
A rural area where Kim Il-sung was born and spent his childhood.
- Historical Significance: The site holds great historical importance being the birthplace of Kim Il-sung.
- Rural Atmosphere: Visitors can explore a rural, agricultural setting that contrasts with urban Pyongyang.
- Nature and History: The site combines the beauty of nature with historical significance.