Unusual and unbelievable tales about North Korea

1. The Pyongyang Metro Mystery: Pyongyang boasts one of the world's deepest subway systems. However, it is shrouded in secrecy. Rumors suggest that there are hidden, underground facilities connected to the metro system, serving as emergency bunkers for the elite in case of conflict. These claims remain unverified but add to the intrigue surrounding the regime.

2. State-Approved Love: North Korea has a strict policy of arranged marriages, and romantic relationships outside of these arrangements are highly discouraged. Citizens have reported being forced to break off relationships deemed unacceptable by the state, and couples who try to elope often face severe consequences.

3. The Abduction of South Koreans: North Korea has been accused of abducting South Korean citizens over the years. In some cases, people have gone missing near the border, only to reappear in North Korea. The North Korean regime has not fully accounted for these abductions, adding to the mystery.

4. Fake Everything: North Korea is known for producing counterfeit goods, from fake currency and cigarettes to counterfeit Viagra. The regime has even been accused of producing fake brands of popular food and beverage items, making it difficult for citizens to trust the authenticity of their daily products.

5. Unrealistic Propaganda: The North Korean government produces elaborate propaganda that often depicts exaggerated feats of strength and skill by its leaders. These stories include claims of Kim Jong-un scoring multiple holes-in-one during a round of golf, or his father, Kim Jong-il, never needing to use the bathroom due to his "perfect" body.

6. Mandatory Mourning: When Kim Jong-il passed away in 2011, the regime enforced a period of mourning during which citizens were expected to display extreme grief. Failure to show sufficient sorrow could result in punishment. Some reports even suggest that citizens were made to attend mass crying sessions to prove their loyalty.

7. Underground Markets: Despite the highly controlled economy, there are reports of thriving underground markets in North Korea. These markets, known as "jangmadang," sell a variety of goods, including smuggled foreign products, creating a parallel economy that exists beneath the regime's radar.

8. Kim Jong-un's Mysterious Disappearance: Kim Jong-un's sudden and unexplained absence from public appearances in 2020 led to widespread speculation about his health and the stability of the regime. Rumors ranged from illness to even a potential coup, highlighting the secrecy and uncertainty surrounding North Korea's leadership.

These tales shed light on the enigmatic nature of North Korea and the extreme measures taken by the regime to control its citizens and maintain its grip on power. While some stories may seem far-fetched, they are a testament to the closed and highly controlled society that exists within the country.