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More articles by 'Joshua Kim'
Ask a North Korean: Are alcoholism and drunk driving major problems in the DPRK?
The regime treats drinking as a ‘political cancer,’ but alcohol is the only way for many to escape their harsh reality
Ask a North Korean: Why are there so many farms raising the slippery loach fish?
The mudfish is a key income source for many, but the state promotes such aquaculture even in ill-suited environments
Ask a North Korean: What was it like to travel abroad for the first time?
Joshua Kim writes about marveling at Incheon airport, how Vietnam reminded him of the DPRK and more
Ask a North Korean: What are popular sayings and proverbs in the DPRK?
Everyday expressions offer a window into how North Koreans think and see the world
Ask a North Korean: How did you learn to use a computer?
Schools provide limited computer education to most students, and buying one requires submitting to strict state controls
Ask a North Korean: Were you exposed to outside information in the DPRK?
Unapproved information reaches most corners of North Korea through fliers, radio broadcasts and even shark balloons
Ask a North Korean: What’s the restaurant scene like in the DPRK?
Few outside the capital can afford to eat out, while the most popular eateries are run out of people’s homes
Ask a North Korean: How common are extramarital affairs?
Strict rules that discourage divorce by party officials have the side effect of encouraging infidelity
Ask a North Korean: Do North Koreans have different regional accents?
Authorities insist everyone speak standardized language, but people actually use a range of slang, profanity and accents
Ask a North Korean: How much crime is there in the DPRK?
Theft and other crime occurs in North Korea like any other country, but the state is selective in what it punishes
