"Jeans Forbidden in North Korea" - See Some "Dont's" in North Korea

North Korea is a very popular country in Asia. It's a nation which is known for its strict laws and decency. Most people, whose hobby is travelling, really don't get attracted to the country. This is because of the strictures caused by the laws of the country which some think are a bit harsh and rigid. These laws, from all indications, are birthed by the Government's desire to veil the country from negative, external influences. They don't want external influences to assassinate the culture which defines them as a people. These strictures range from hairstyles, clothes, the Internet to other aspects of their living. After a critical research with my very good friend, Hilary Akuburunwa, we think it will be interesting to share with you some of these "don'ts".

Western fashion: North Korean Leader, Kim Jong-un, made jeans and other types of western clothes forbidden in the two regions, bordering China. Pyongyang, the capital of the country, is trying to fight the influence of the western style culture, spilling over from its big neighbour. This startles you, doesn't it? Across the boundaries of the world, there are countries where citizens will labour to act in obeisance to this law on dressing. There are people who have totally discarded all forms or types of wear for jeans. When jeans are not available to them, they don't go out. In Nigeria, for instance, jeans are what the damsels use in merchandising their natural assets -- as a matter of fact, jeans that cling strongly onto their bodies. Even among the guys, jeans are dominant. Jeans usually complement their youthfulness. It also matches perfectly the exorbitant lifestyle which excites them.

Coca Cola: A trade embargo on Coca Cola, imposed on North Korea, makes it difficult to get a decent bottle of Coke there. However, it's reported that some upscale shops in Pyongyang sell Coke that is produced in China. The sellers are aware of the risk they take, hence they are always on the alert. One would wonder the reason for this harsh embargo. Clearly, North Korea has no room for what isn't homemade.

Hairstyles: All over the world, there are different hairstyles which sit on people's heads: dreadlocks, braids, bangs, crops, mullets, galas, etc. In Korea, there is a capital "no" to these styles. You'll have the Government to face if any of them is seen on your head. There are thirty-three hairstyles which have the imprimatur of President Kim Jong-un: eighteen for women; fifteen for men. At every salon and barbershop, there are pictures, depicting the approved hairstyles. A person could be treated as a criminal if s/he infringes this law. Aside from this, hair dying is frowned on. Nobody is allowed to change their hair colours.

Sanitary pads: Sanitary pads and tampons aren't available in North Korea. No, they aren't. Women use the old-school reusable pads.

Condoms: All types of birth control are prohibited in North Korea, and so getting a condom is a very difficult task. Many adult North Koreans will gladly accept condoms as a gift because only few traders take the risk of selling condoms. In some countries, condoms are sold and seen everywhere even in the wallets of some male youths.

Designer shoes: If you happen to be in North Korea, and you're thinking of buying a pair of Manolo Blahniks or any designer kind of shoes, you'll be out of luck. Designer shoes aren't available except in the regions bordering China which may have Chinese-made high heels for sale. North Korea privileges simple shoes over designer ones.

Religious practices: North Korea is officially an atheist country. All forms of religious practices are forbidden or heavily monitored by the Government. Nobody is allowed to evangelise the doctrines of any religion. Religiosity has no place in North Korea. They Government fears that religion will polarise the people.

Cable TV: In some countries, televisions are crowded by numerous stations. An individual sits in the comfort of his home and is even confused about which channel to watch. It's not so in North Korea. There are only four official TV channels available in the country. Censorship by the Government is so strong that it doesn't allow any other stations aside from those four.

Decency/modesty is one factor which characterises the North Korean society. The laws on hairstyles, dressing, TV stations, drinking, etc, foreground that the country gives huge relevance to modesty. There are also strictures on the use of Wi-Fi, drinking of coffee, and attending concerts. These, we can say, make them a unique people.