The mobile phone market has long been a vibrant industry across the globe, with millions of devices sold every day. However, inside the totalitarian state of North Korea, mobile phones have long been a banned luxury. Yet over the last few years, a small but thriving market for these devices has begun to emerge, giving us a fascinating glimpse into the insular country’s tech sector, and the daily lives of its citizens.
Despite the near-universal ban on foreign technology imports, it’s estimated that over three million North Koreans have mobile phones, and that number continues to grow. While the government has loosened its tight grip on the market, there are still numerous restrictions on how people can use their phones. This has created a complex, often confusing ecosystem of providers, dealers, and users, that’s tough to navigate. Plus, given the enormous risks of breaking the country’s strict laws, any foreign companies looking to enter the mobile phone market must tread carefully.
The process of getting hold of a phone in North Korea is far from straightforward. With no access to the Internet or international calls, users have to rely on domestic service providers who have created their own proprietary networks. These networks can be limited to certain geographic areas or “franchise” zones, meaning that coverage is often patchy at best. Users must also register their handsets, together with their name, address, and the names of other users in their household. Multiple users sharing one phone is commonplace, increasing the savvy required from dealers to persuade hesitant buyers.
The price of buying a phone in North Korea is prohibitively high for most people. Simple and outdated models start around $150 in the capital, Pyongyang, which is roughly equivalent to a month’s salary for a typical worker. The regime has set up special payment plans for its citizens to help them afford devices, but the system is heavily regulated, meaning dealers often resort to selling credit cards that can be used to make purchases in shops, from food to clothes, as well as mobile phones.
Despite all of these restrictions, entrepreneurs are finding ways to make good money from the mobile phone market. From creating apps to promoting innovations on social media, the North Korean tech scene is positively buzzing with creativity and excitement. Young people and homemakers are often key to these small businesses, helping with marketing and merchandising in ways that are both inspired and inspiring. Plus, many innovative products and services have already been born out of these ventures, with a focus on things like messaging, photo-sharing, and custom ringtones.
In conclusion, the mobile phone market in North Korea is undeniably complex and restricted, but it’s also never been more vibrant and engaging. Despite the challenges, entrepreneurs continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, creating new opportunities for both service providers and consumers alike. What’s more, with the world taking note of the regime’s tech scene, there’s never been a better time to take a closer look at the mobile phones of North Korea – and the brave, tech-savvy people behind them.
