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What it's actually like here
Forget what you think you know about affordability – this city is genuinely cheap, with a 1-bedroom apartment in the center going for just $50 a month, and a decent meal for $5. But this isn't for your average digital nomad. The "nomad community" is non-existent, visa ease is "impossible," and English proficiency is low. Internet speed is effectively zero, and even basic reliability is a struggle. While there's a single coworking space, don't expect to be doing much remote work. Healthcare is basic, safety is a concern (according to travel advisories), and walkability is low. It's a place for those on highly specialized, government-sanctioned assignments, if anyone. The honest caveat? You'll be under constant surveillance, with virtually no personal freedom or digital access. Your lifestyle will be dictated, not chosen.
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Who this suits
Featured neighbourhoods
Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Pyongyang.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in Pyongyang as a digital nomad?+
As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Pyongyang averages around $50 per month, and the overall cost-of-living index sits at 15 (vs Switzerland = 101). Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.
Is Pyongyang safe for digital nomads?+
Pyongyang scores 5/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Stick to well-known nomad neighbourhoods and avoid walking alone late at night.
How fast is the internet in Pyongyang?+
Headline average internet speed in Pyongyang is around 0 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.
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