Internet access in North Korea is heavily restricted and controlled by the government. WiFi is not widely available and tourists are not allowed to access the internet without a guide. It is not recommended to get a local SIM card as it is unlikely to work for international calls or data.

Connectivity in North Korea: A Comprehensive Guide to Internet Access, WiFi Availability, and Local SIM Cards

North Korea is a country that has been shrouded in mystery for decades. It is a nation that has been isolated from the rest of the world, and its citizens have limited access to the internet. In this article, we will explore the connectivity situation in North Korea, including internet access, WiFi availability, and local SIM cards.

Internet Access

North Korea has one of the lowest rates of internet penetration in the world. According to a report by the International Telecommunication Union, only 0.1% of the population had access to the internet in 2017. The government controls all internet access, and only a select few have access to the World Wide Web.

The government operates a national intranet called Kwangmyong, which is accessible to a limited number of people. The intranet provides access to state-run news, educational resources, and government services. However, it is heavily censored, and users are not allowed to access any content that is critical of the government.

Foreigners who visit North Korea can access the internet, but it is heavily monitored. They are required to use a government-approved internet provider, and their online activities are closely monitored. The government also restricts access to certain websites, including social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.

WiFi Availability

WiFi is not widely available in North Korea. The government controls all internet access, and only a select few have access to WiFi. Tourists who visit North Korea can access WiFi in some hotels, but the connection is slow and unreliable.

Foreigners who visit North Korea can also purchase a WiFi hotspot device, which allows them to access the internet from their mobile devices. However, the device is expensive, and the internet connection is slow and unreliable.

Local SIM Cards

Local SIM cards are available in North Korea, but they are only available to foreigners. The government controls all telecommunications in the country, and only a select few have access to mobile phones.

Foreigners who visit North Korea can purchase a local SIM card, which allows them to make calls and send text messages. However, the cost of the SIM card is expensive, and the call rates are high. The government also monitors all telecommunications, so users should be careful about what they say on the phone.

Is it Worth Getting a Local SIM Card?

Whether it is worth getting a local SIM card in North Korea depends on the individual’s needs. If you are a tourist who wants to stay connected with your family and friends back home, a local SIM card may be worth it. However, the cost of the SIM card and the call rates are high, so it may not be worth it for everyone.

If you are a business traveler, a local SIM card may be necessary to stay connected with your colleagues and clients. However, you should be careful about what you say on the phone, as the government monitors all telecommunications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, North Korea has one of the lowest rates of internet penetration in the world. The government controls all internet access, and only a select few have access to the World Wide Web. WiFi is not widely available in North Korea, and local SIM cards are only available to foreigners. Whether it is worth getting a local SIM card in North Korea depends on the individual’s needs. If you are a tourist or a business traveler, a local SIM card may be necessary to stay connected. However, the cost of the SIM card and the call rates are high, so it may not be worth it for everyone.