Thrilling Urban Climbing Photography in North Korea: Ultimate Adventure Guide

A few days ago, I shared a personal account of my 2019 photography expedition to North Korea, sparking considerable curiosity among readers about my unique travel experience. As a passionate photography enthusiast specializing in urban landscapes, I’ve built my reputation through breathtaking rooftop perspectives and innovative drone captures. In fact, I was one of the pioneering photographers to popularize rooftop photography in China.

However, shooting from rooftops in North Korea was an entirely different—and frankly, nerve-racking—experience. The constant fear of being discovered weighed heavily on me, not to mention the concern that my actions might be misinterpreted, potentially leading to serious consequences. You can probably imagine the tension.

Despite the risks, rooftop photography offered fascinating insights into Pyongyang’s urban landscape. One particularly striking observation occurred at dusk: the moment the sun dipped below the horizon, every government building displaying portraits of the leaders would instantly illuminate, ensuring their images remained perpetually bathed in light. It was a surreal and unforgettable sight.