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The official name of North Korea is Democratic People's Republic Of North Korea. After World War II, Korea was divided into two parts: North Korea and South Korea. Since then the political system of North Korea runs under the Juche ideology and Kim II-sung was it's founder. North Korea maintains a strong relationship with their neighboring countries such as, Vietnam, China, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. The government encourages and in fact promotes the culture of North Korea within the state.
Official Languages:
TKorean language is the official language of North Korea, which is shared by South Korea as well. However, there are dialects spoken in both parts of Korea. However, the Chinese sign language 'Hanja' has been simplified in North Korea but is still prevalent in South Korea. The modified form of their language is called 'McCune-Reischauer'. Unlike, South Korea, North Korea has been open to accepting new languages. Thus, English is also widely spoken and understood in the country.
Independence, Republic and Government:
After Japan left Korean territories due to it's defeat in World War II, USSR established it's rule over the Northern region of Korea. Soviet Union faced a lot of internal resistance and protests in North Korea. Soviet Union had to end it's reign over North Korea. Yet, peace could not be established due to the rising conflicts between two parts of Korea. This clash led to the famous Korean war in 1950, which continued for next three years.
Amidst so much of instability, Kim II-sung was handed over the responsibility of the state as he was made the President of the country in 1948. The exact date of the independence of North Korea is 9th September, 1948, when the country established an independent government. The independence day of the country is associated with the red color and therefore the celebrations every year are with vibrant colors and quite eventful.
The government of North Korea operates under dictatorship. As USSR left, Kim II-sung was the President and when he died no one replaced his positions and he was given the honor of being the 'Eternal President'. It was his policy called 'Juche' that is running the government in the present times as well.
Top Cities of North Korea:
Pyongyang: The capital city of the country, this is situated on the banks of Taedong River. The place is mostly visited for it's famous landmarks that define the culture and heritage of North Korea very well. Among places worth visiting are Korean Central Zoo, Juche Tower, Ryugyong hotel (the tallest building in the city), Kumsusan Memorial Museum, Arch of Triumph etc. Although, rebuilt after the Korean war, it shows no signs of destruction at all.
Kaesong: Encircled amidst the Mountains of Songak and Mountains Pongmyong, this place offers enticing view of scenic beauty with all the facilities of an urban city. The suburbian regions of the city is full of palaces belong to ancient royal empires. The Pagyon Falls at the backdrop of Taehung castle is nothing less than a fairy tale sight.
Wonsan:Songdowen situated in the city is one of the famous sightseeing point for foreign tourists as well as for natives. The clear water surrounded by Pine trees looks wonderful. Other places that you should visit during a trip to the city include, Lake Sijung, Mountain Kumgang and Chongsokjon.
Hamhung : In terms of it's area, it is the second largest city in North Korea. Hamhung is the only place where you can find maximum theaters of the country. The city is mostly visited by the students as there a number of Universities that offer studies in various branches.
Culture and Heritage:
The two heroes of the nation Kim II-Sung and Kim Jong-il have been glorified via all means, be it theater, music, films and other works of art. Gymnastics and dance being very popular amongst the citizens of the country is conducted on a pompous level. Mass Games a popular event, which is named as 'Arirang'. This continued for six days a week and lasted for two months. More than 100, 000 people participated in the event.
Most of the Korean heritage sites were destroyed by Japanese during their reign. Many ancient buildings including the famous and the most treasured Gyeongbok Palace was demolished. People were forced to learn Japanese. Now that North Korea is independent, it promotes the country's culture in it's own way. The Korean language is a must to be taught in schools and colleges. Museums and other buildings dedicated to the cultural significances of the Koreans are constructed by the government. This has boosted the Korean culture a lot and in 2004, North Korea's Complex Of Goguryeo Tombs was included in UNESCO's World Heritage Site's list.
Tourism
The tourism in North Korea is completely under control of the government. All the tourists are escorted by a guide appointed by the government. The natives of North Korea are hospitable and warm while treating with the tourists thereby giving a good impression of the country. There are a number of luxury hotels where tourists can stay. The famous Diamond Mountains are an exquisite place to visit. From beach areas to mountains ranges experience the beauty of all.
To know more interesting facts about the neat and lovely country of North Korea, keep looking in to the pages of countriesandcapitals.
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