“The main feeling the visitor has in Pyongyang is one of pity at the pathos of the place—its hopeless, helpless overestimate of its own power and importance, the deluded ignorance of millions of people carefully protected from any inrush of truth about themselves, their country, and their rulers.”
-Peter Hitchens, “Prisoners in Camp Kim”

Journalists and tourists have long tried to learn what life is really like in North Korea, a country often billed as a “hermit kingdom.” The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, its official, wildly inaccurate title, has the dubious distinction of being the least free country in the world. Its 23 million inhabitants are mostly poverty-stricken and almost completely shut off from the outside world, the only connection being a government-run news service that specializes in propaganda. Take a look at some recent headlines and hilarious excerpts from the country’s official news service, the Korean Central News Agency:

“Kim Jong Il Praised As Most Famous Person of World”

“The U.S. magazine “Time” praised him as the most outstanding statesman among the world’s famous politicians in 2004 and an excellent leader in 2006. And this year it listed him as the leader who has the biggest influence on the change of the world and the best reputed leader in the world.”

“U.S. Stages War Exercises against DPRK”

“The U.S. imperialist bellicose forces for aggression are busy these days with war exercises targeted against the DPRK after introducing flying corps and nuclear-powered guided missile submarines into south Korea, according to a military source.”

“Kim Jong Il’s Famous Work Disseminated Worldwide”

“Kim Jong Il’s famous work “Socialism Is a Science” has been widely studied and disseminated in at least 120 countries over the past 13 years.”

Want to experience this real-life 1984 yourself? Tourist visas are available, though obtaining one is reportedly a bureaucratic nightmare. All visits are possible only in tour groups which are led by government-provided guides. Tourists report that they are not permitted to handle local currency, walk around independently, or talk to locals. All those who visit are expected to bow to the country’s statues and photos honoring the country’s “Eternal President,” Kim il-Sung, and its current leader (and star of Team America), Kim Jong-il.

Tourists’ cell phones are confiscated upon their arrival, and returned at departure. Cell phone use is strictly prohibited in North Korea, and the AP reports that the authorities don’t take kindly to scofflaws.

Traveling to North Korea would undoubtedly be a unique experience, if not always pleasant or comfortable. But before booking a trip, one should give serious thought to the ethical implications of visiting places like North Korea, where money from tourism, rather than reaching local businesses, ends up in the hands of an oppressive government.

For slide shows of North Korea, click here and here.