These massive stone blocks on the sides of the road are not decorative. In case of attack, the United States being the most likely invader, these blocks will be blown up to create tank traps.
As these blocks fall, they will block the road making it impassable. Furthermore, the walls are made of rocks which are designed to form shrapnel, making sure any soldiers on the ground will be hurt or worse.
The rise of tourism
Not that long ago, even in 2012, it was extremely difficult for foreigners to be granted entrance into isolated North Korea. Actually, the only chance to get into the Hermit Kingdom was to travel to China, stay in a North Korean run hotel there, give your passport to the North Korean embassy (don’t forget the bribe please) and wait with your fingers crossed.
Today, the process is much simpler, and locals are much more used to tourists. This shot was taken before foreigners were a regular sight.
Heroes on the wall
In every North Korean home there are pictures of the country’s three leaders: Kim Il Sung, Kim Jong Il, and Kim Jong Un. It is mandatory for every family to have these pictures prominently displayed in their homes and due to Kim’s cult of personality, they are also used as religious icons with prayers being offered to the images.
In fact, the pictures are considered so important, that there is a famous story of a young girl who was swept away by a flood trying to save them. She is now considered a hero of the state.
Time off
Even though it seems hard to believe, even North Koreans sometimes need a break to enjoy time off just like you or me. One of the preferred leisure activities for (well off) North Korean kids is to rollerblade.
Even though they are about two decades behind in this trend, it is something they enjoy, and a small sign that North Korea may be slowly catching up with the rest of the world.
Local business
This woman has started her own little business in her small village, selling a few items to make some money to try and improve her and her children’s lives.
Such businesses are illegal in North Korea, but most of the local authorities probably won’t make an issue out of it, as she is probably selling smuggled Chinese goods like candy and cigarettes to them as well. If she makes sure to sell to them at a good price or give them items as gifts, she should be all right.