조선민주주의인민공화국

so north korea came and went. had been planning this since 2 years ago but there was some nuclear missile testing (what else?) in 2009 and i had my visa application rejected. i guess its not a place where most people would like to go to, but for me it was one of the more memorable trips that i have been on.

i had always been politically leftist, and with the increasing number of countries "embracing" democracy (and consequently capitalism), north korea was my last chance to experience what the alternative would be. most of us must have read or seen about north korea in the media: about how cruel the regime is or how tough the living conditions are. well, in all fairness i must say that i was treated really well during my stay there. of course, its not MBS or RWS but it not a hellhole either. basic amenities were provided, the people were warm, and food was abundant. there was plenty of beer to go around too! yes, the itinerary was pretty much controlled and we were chaperoned everywhere but for me it was much better than walking around freely at some shopping mall or theme park.

anyway, i wish i could tell you fully how interesting it was and how much fun we had but unfortunately as the saying goes, a picture does indeed paint a thousand words, and for the benefit of my fingers here's the link to the photos: dprk, vladivostok and harbin.

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chinup bar

this strangely reminds me of james.