The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), more commonly known as North Korea, has strict regulations regarding the items visitors can bring into the country. This includes restrictions on the types and sizes of bags allowed on tours. Understanding the DPRK’s bag policy is important for preparing for a visit to this unique destination.
In general, visitors on guided tours to the DPRK are allowed one piece of hand luggage and one suitcase per person. Banned items include materials deemed inappropriate by North Korean standards, as well as large bags or backpacks which could potentially hold hidden items. Security checks are thorough, both upon entering and exiting the country.
This article provides an overview of the DPRK’s bag policy for visitors on guided tours. Key information includes:
Allowable Types of Bags
The DPRK permits hand luggage like purses or small shoulder bags, as well as standard suitcases or duffel bags. Specific restrictions apply to the sizes and styles of bags permitted. Backpacks and messenger bags are typically prohibited.
Size Restrictions
Hand luggage may not exceed 45cm x 35cm x 25cm (approximately 18in x 14in x 10in). Suitcases or duffel bags can be up to 158cm (about 62in) in combined length, width and height. Oversized or extra bags are not allowed.
Inspection of Contents
All bags going into North Korea will be thoroughly searched. Any prohibited items will be confiscated and not returned. Visitors are advised to carefully check guidelines before packing.
Banned Items
There is a broad list of common items that are not allowed into the DPRK. This includes electronic devices like laptops and tablets, as well as religious materials, books, and photographs felt to be inappropriate. Large amounts of cash and merchandise are also prohibited.
Purchases Made on Tour
Any items purchased by visitors during their North Korea tour can be packed in their suitcase for departure. Purchasing limited souvenirs provides vital support to local artisans.
Allowable Types of Bags in Detail
When preparing luggage for a trip to North Korea, it is important to select an allowable bag style and size. The DPRK strictly controls bag types permitted on tours.
Hand Luggage
One small piece of hand luggage is allowed per person. This is limited to a purse, small shoulder bag, or similar item. The maximum size is approximately 18in x 14in x 10in (45cm x 35cm x 25cm). Handbags should have minimal pockets or compartments.
Tote bags, messenger bags, and anything resembling a backpack is prohibited as hand luggage. Fanny packs are not permitted either. Hand luggage will be carried with you throughout the tour.
Suitcases and Duffel Bags
In addition to one small hand luggage item, visitors are permitted one suitcase or duffel bag measuring up to approximately 62in (158cm) total in length, width and height. For example, a common suitcase size of 28in x 20in x 12in would meet the requirements.
Wheeled suitcases are allowed. Duffel bags should have minimal pockets, similar to hand luggage guidelines. Attachable daypacks are not permitted.
Backpacks and Briefcases
Unfortunately, backpacks, messenger bags, and briefcases are expressly prohibited – even as your one piece of checked baggage. The DPRK views these bag styles as more likely to conceal banned materials.
If you show up with a backpack or messenger bag, be prepared to leave it behind. This includes leather messenger bags or brand name laptop bags.
Size Restrictions on Luggage
To ensure visitors do not bring in concealed, prohibited items, the DPRK is very strict regarding luggage sizes. Be sure to check the maximum dimensions for your bags prior to packing. Oversized items will be confiscated before entering North Korea.
Hand Luggage Restrictions
As noted earlier, your hand luggage may be no larger than 18in x 14in x 10in (45cm x 35cm x 25cm). This equals approximately 3,150 cubic inches or 9,800 cubic cm. Anything larger will not be permitted as a carry on item.
Keep in mind that your small shoulder bag or purse will need to fit camera equipment, medications, or other items you need access to during the tour. Pack wisely.
Checked Luggage Size Limits
Suitcases and duffel bags combined may not exceed 158cm in total length, width and height. To give a sense of the size, here are some examples of compliant checked bag dimensions:
Suitcase Size | Total Inches |
24in x 15in x 10in | 158in |
28in x 13in x 12in | 158in |
21in x 14in x 14in | 154in |
As you can see, standard checked bag sizes should comply with the limits. But oversized luggage is not permitted. You also cannot bring an additional personal item or daypack.
Thorough Inspection of All Bags
All luggage entering North Korea will be meticulously inspected by security personnel. Privacy around your belongings should not be expected. Be sure to fully adhere to prohibited item guidelines when packing.
Searches Upon Arrival
The inspection process begins immediately upon landing in the DPRK. Luggage will be unloaded separately to undergo screening. This involves passing checked bags through x-ray scanners and manually searching all contents. Expect this process to be extremely thorough.
Security officers may also inspect cameras and phones for objectionable images or content. Deletion may be required on the spot if found. You will be observed at all times during the search process.
Searches When Departing
You can expect to undergo an equally thorough luggage search as you depart North Korea. The inspection when exiting focuses on ensuring you are not taking any prohibited items out of the country.
All bags and purchases will be carefully checked. This could include opening sealed packages or foodstuffs. Be cooperative during these exit searches to ensure a smooth departure.
Prohibited Items Will Be Confiscated
If any banned items are discovered in your luggage, they will immediately be confiscated. This includes books, media, religious materials, or other prohibited contents. Confiscated belongings will not be returned to you.
Broad List of Banned Items in North Korea
To avoid losing belongings, it is essential to fully understand prohibited items you cannot bring into North Korea. Security screening will identify any banned goods in your luggage or on your person.
The DPRK prohibits a wide array of common items, including:
Books and Media
All books are inspected upon arrival. Any literature deemed anti-DPRK, provocative, or pornographic will be confiscated. This includes most foreign newspapers and periodicals. Only political books approved by your tour guides are permitted. Inform guides ahead of time about any books you are bringing.
Media like DVDs, CDs, and flash drives are also prohibited. Do not attempt to bring in any films, music, or digital content. e-Readers and handheld gaming devices should be left at home.
Religious Materials
The DPRK is strict regarding religious materials being brought in. Bibles, Qurans, and other religious texts will be confiscated if found during inspection. Religious jewelry or icons may also be taken away or need to be removed.
Electronic Devices
Personal laptops, tablets, and advanced smartphones like iPhones are not allowed. Simple cell phones and lower-end smartphones are permitted but will be examined closely. Larger camera lenses and drones are prohibited as well.
Large Cash Amounts
There are restrictions on the amount of cash visitors can bring in, whether in U.S. dollars or other currencies. In general, larger sums over $3,000 USD may be confiscated. Consult your tour operator for current guidelines.
Merchandise and Food
Bringing in bulk quantities of merchandise or food for resale is not permitted. Larger amounts will be seized during inspection. Also be aware that customs forms will need to be completed when exiting with souvenirs.
Purchases Can Be Taken Home
While certain goods cannot be brought into North Korea, the DPRK does allow visitors to purchase approved souvenirs and items during their stay. These permitted keepsakes can be packed into your luggage upon departure.
Types of Approved Purchases
Popular buys include artwork, propaganda posters and prints, stamps, embroidery, and handicrafts made locally. Purchasing these types of items benefits local artisans. Alcohol and foodstuffs like tea and ginseng can also be taken home.
Itemizing Your Purchases
You will need to closely document everything acquired in North Korea using customs declaration forms. Be sure to list out items specifically – do not just write “presents” or “souvenirs”. Keep receipts as well.
Inspection of Items
As previously noted, your bags will be searched when departing the country. Any items purchased in North Korea will once again be inspected. Expect packaging to be opened on food products, for example. Be cooperative with officials.
Conclusion
Visiting the unique nation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea requires carefully adhering to strict luggage and banned item regulations. Limit yourself to one small piece of approved hand luggage, plus one standard checked bag. Pack appropriately without any prohibited electronics, religious materials, books, or food and merchandise intended for resale. Understand that all bags will be thoroughly searched upon arrival and departure. While an unusual travel experience, following North Korea’s luggage guidelines helps ensure a smooth and safe visit.