In January 2020, North Korea has officially closed its borders. But even before that date, photographing the enigmatic landscapes of North Korea posed immense challenges due to the regime's strict control and prohibition of unauthorized photography. However, armed with a vast archive of images captured painstakingly over two years, Tariq Zaidi curates a selection of more than 100 remarkable photographs that offer a glimpse into North Korean society.
Zaidi's lens skilfully captures the resilience, spirit, and cultural nuances of the North Korean people in their everyday lives. Each photograph acts as a window into a hidden reality, unveiling the intricate interplay between tradition and modernity while illuminating the complex dynamics of a nation navigating its path amid global scrutiny.

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https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2023/nov/28/window-into-secretive-north-korea-in-pictures

“North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), shares borders with South Korea to the south, China to the north and Russia to the north-east. The most populous city is its capital, Pyongyang. The country has a rich historical background, a distinct political system and a unique cultural identity.
North Korea has one of the world’s largest standing armies. Military service is mandatory for all able-bodied individuals, and the military contributes to the economy through owned businesses and factories.
North Korea is notorious for its absolute rule under Kim Jong-un. Central to its political ideology is the philosophy of juche, credited to Kim’s grandfather, Kim Il-sung. Juche emphasises self-sufficiency, independence and the supremacy of the state over the individual. It permeates all aspects of society through propaganda, education and cultural activities.
Most information about North Korea focuses on its politics, offering a one-dimensional perspective. However, North Korea is a complex nation that demands a more humanistic understanding of its culture. Photography plays a vital role in this endeavour, helping us to grasp and appreciate this little-known country.
Visiting North Korea is a rare privilege afforded to only a few individuals from outside the country. Only about 5,000 non-Chinese tourists visit North Korea each year.
Photographing the enigmatic landscapes of North Korea presents immense challenges, given the strict regime control. This collection of images offers rare glimpses of the North Korean people’s daily struggles and ways of life. (…)”

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Tariq Zaidi is a freelance photographer currently based out of London, UK.
He is a self-taught photographer, holds an M.Sc. (Master of Science) from University College London .