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Few scams

Eastern Asia

Tourist scams in North Korea

Tourist scams appear limited in North Korea, where visitors are closely supervised. The main money problem is overcharging when sellers lack change or use rough currency conversions; a small amount of theft is also reported at Tonghil Market in Pyongyang. Low scam risk does not mean low overall travel risk: restrictions are strict, and breaking rules can have serious consequences.
  1. 1 ShoppingCommonOvercharging through missing change and rough conversionsSellers often lack change. If you pay with a large note, you may end up paying more than the price. Rough conversions between foreign currencies can also make the final amount hard to check. These problems do not always mean deliberate fraud.Tourist shops, souvenir shops, restaurants and hotel shops 3Read
  2. 2 TheftOccasionalTheft at Tonghil MarketA small amount of theft occurs at the market. No specific theft method is described.PyongyangRead

Where to stay alert

  • Tonghil Market (Tongil Market), PyongyangA small amount of theft is reported here. It is not normally a permitted stop for short-term visitors.

Habits that keep you safe

Money

  • Bring plenty of small notes. Sellers often cannot provide change.
  • Confirm the price and payment currency before buying.
  • Count change and check any currency conversion before leaving.
  • Ask your guide where you may obtain and spend local won. Do not import or export it.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and valuables close to your body.
  • Avoid displaying a large amount of cash.
  • Check your belongings before leaving shops, markets and transport.

Tours and guides

  • Let your tour company arrange transport and visits.
  • Get permission and a guide before leaving your hotel.
  • Stay within approved areas and follow your guide's instructions.
  • Ask what your tour price includes so you can identify extra purchases.

Police and officials

  • Stay calm and courteous during any official interaction.
  • Ask your guide to help explain questions or resolve a payment dispute.
  • Avoid sensitive political discussions and remarks that could be seen as disrespectful.
  • Find out before travel which embassy can assist you in an emergency.

Nights out

  • Avoid getting drunk or causing trouble. You and your guide could face serious penalties.
  • Arrange permission and transport through your guide before going out.
  • Check drink prices and available change before ordering.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in North Korea?

Scams appear limited under close tour supervision. The main payment concern is losing money through missing change or rough currency conversions. Strict rules and serious penalties remain a separate travel risk.

How can I avoid paying too much in shops?

Bring small notes. Confirm the price, currency and change before paying. Ask your guide to explain any conversion you cannot check.

Which currencies should I prepare?

Tourist businesses commonly accept US dollars, euros and Chinese yuan. Confirm what your tour uses and bring small denominations.

Can I use local won freely?

Short-term tourists usually do not use it. Tourist use is restricted, and importing or exporting won is forbidden. Ask your guide where you may obtain and spend it.

Where should I be most careful with my belongings?

Tonghil Market in Pyongyang has a small reported theft risk. Keep bags closed and valuables secure. Short-term visitors are not normally permitted to visit it.

Should I arrange transport myself?

Your tour company normally handles transport. Stay with your guide and ask them to arrange any permitted journey.

What should I do if a seller refuses to correct an overcharge?

Stay calm and ask your guide to help. Keep any receipt and note the amount and currency. Avoid turning the dispute into an argument.

Can I take photos to document a problem?

Ask your guide before taking photos and follow local restrictions. Photography is prohibited at Tonghil Market. Written notes and receipts may help record what happened.

Who can help after a serious theft or police incident?

Tell your guide first and ask for help contacting police or an embassy able to assist you. Find out before travel which embassy covers you, as consular help may be limited.

What precautions should I take when drinking?

Check prices before ordering and carry small notes. Avoid getting drunk or causing trouble, as both you and your guide could face serious penalties.

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