These 12 Forbidden Photos Show Why North Korea Shouldn't Be Your Next Vacation Spot

Strict Borders: A Prison

Many North Koreans dream of leaving the country, but it is nearly impossible. They are forbidden from leaving. Some attempt to escape via China or directly to South Korea, but if caught, they face a harsh fate—often the death penalty.

The Ghost Town

Almost all buildings in North Korea look identical. There are tall, gray prefabricated blocks used as housing, kept simple and uniform. Then there are buildings meant to project an image to the outside world, which appear especially luxurious and modern.