Russian Vlogger Captures Shocking Life in North Korean Subways—Including an American Brand Backpack

Russian travel YouTuber Victor has garnered attention by releasing a video showcasing the Pyongyang Metro in North Korea. On his YouTube channel, PoletMe Aviation Videos, Victor shared a video titled “Pyongyang Metro (2024), North Korea,” recounting his travel experiences there.

During his five-day trip to North Korea in October, Victor filmed the interior and stations of the Pyongyang Metro on the second day of his visit. He noted that tourists are permitted to film only in designated areas.

According to the video, Victor’s group began their journey at Puhung Station, from Yonggwang Station to Kaesŏn Station. Puhung Station featured relatively simple interiors, while Yonggwang Station was adorned with high arched ceilings, elaborate lighting, and portraits of Kim Il Sung. Kaesŏn Station, remodeled in 2019, exuded a modern atmosphere with digital screens installed on the ceilings.

Victor also highlighted the differences between the older and newer trains. The older trains had wooden designs with photographs of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il displayed, whereas the newer trains, manufactured in North Korea, boasted more contemporary interiors. Ceiling screens in the new trains continuously played socialist propaganda videos.

Additionally, Victor captured footage of the area surrounding Kaeson Station, where the Arch of Triumph is located, as well as scenes from downtown Pyongyang. The city’s roads appeared wide and orderly but had few vehicles. Notably, some citizens were seen jaywalking while pulling carts.

He mentioned that the cost of his five-day tour, which included airfare, accommodation, and meals, departing from Vladivostok, was approximately $1,378.

After closing its borders due to COVID-19, North Korea resumed tourism for Russian visitors in 2024. Reports indicate that over 1,000 Russian tourists visited North Korea between February and September.