North Korea - Travel Report

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea or DPRK) is a highly militaristic Communist state located on the Korean Peninsula between northeast China and the Republic of Korea (South Korea). The capital is Pyongyang. The average GDP of North Korea is $22.85 billion (2003 est.). The primary products of North Korea are rice, corn, steel, cement, petrochemicals, and textiles. The major trade partners are South Korea, China, Japan, Thailand, and Germany. Traditionally Buddhist and Confucianist, some Christian and syncretic Chondogyo were major religious denominatons in North Korea. However, autonomous religious activities now almost nonexistent; government-sponsored religious groups exist to provide illusion of religious freedom. Direct personal and commercial financial transactions are allowed between U.S. and North Korean citizens. Restrictions on investment have also been eased.