Simon traveled to North Korea 182 times: "Tourists should only have conversations in the toilet"

Briton Simon Cockerell is the managing director of the China-based travel company Koryo Tours. He specializes in North Korea tours. He has already visited the country of Kim Jong-un 182 times and knows all the rules, which tourists should also follow, especially given the total surveillance there.

"I know some people who have every conversation with their roommate in the bathroom," Cockerell told Business Insider. They fear that their hotel rooms are bugged and that secret agents could listen in. North Korea's largest hotel, the Yanggadkdo Hotel in Pyongyang, has an entire floor equipped with spy technology. The fifth floor is not accessible by elevator, and access via the stairs is prohibited.

Cockerell also warns against so-called fashion police, who can be identified by a particular hat. "If you're not dressed properly, they'll tell you to leave the main streets," the North Korea expert told Business Insider.

Violations of the rules can lead to serious consequences. Cockerell reported an incident in which a tourist was detained for carrying a North Korean Bible.

• It is illegal to knowingly or unknowingly possess items that violate North Korean law.
• You should be careful who you talk to and what you say.
• Disrespect or jokes about North Korea, current or former leaders, or their families are illegal.
• It is also illegal to speak to North Koreans without permission.

Travel to North Korea is very limited due to the political situation and strict entry regulations and is usually offered by specialized tour operators.

There are only a few companies in Germany that organize such trips. One of the well-known providers in Europe is "Koryo Tours ," the tour operator for which Simon Cockerell also works. Although they are not based in Germany, they also serve travelers from Germany.

• Political system: North Korea is a one-party state ruled by the Workers' Party of Korea. Political power is heavily concentrated in the hands of the Kim dynasty, which has ruled the country since its founding in 1948. The current leader is Kim Jong-un.
• Military strength: North Korea has one of the largest standing armies in the world . It is estimated that there are approximately 1.2 million active soldiers and several million reservists in the country. The country also has an extensive nuclear weapons program, which is causing international tensions.
• Economic situation: The North Korean economy is highly centralized and planned. It suffers from international isolation and sanctions, leading to a lack of foreign investment and technological advances. Agriculture and industry are inefficient, frequently leading to food shortages and other economic challenges.
• Information control: North Korea is subject to strict information control. Access to foreign media and the internet is severely restricted, meaning citizens primarily receive information controlled and disseminated by the government. This control serves to influence the population and secure the ruling party's power.