‘The Mansu Hill Grand Monument in Pyongyang with a bronze statue of President Kim Il-sung and General Kim Jong Il’ by Tariq Zaidi
Since North Korea sealed its borders in January 2020, the highly secretive country has become even more of an enigma than before.
Now, a book by UK-based documentary photographer Tariq Zaidi gives a glimpse of everyday life in the nation.
North Korea: The People’s Paradise is the culmination of two years’ work in what is described by the book's publisher Kehrer Verlag as a “wider perspective on a society often misunderstood and overshadowed by stereotypes”.
‘Man in military uniform watches over beachgoers near Wonsan’ by Tariq Zaidi
Isolated from the outside world, the nation that emerged from the turmoil of World War II is run as a totalitarian system by its leader Kim Jong Un. With North Korean media under the direct control of the state, its citizens risk heavy penalties for accessing foreign broadcasts.
Before North Korea closed its borders, Zaidi was given restricted access to the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures – all under the watchful eye of the authorities. The resulting book of 100 photographs exposes a complex relationship between modernity and tradition, and the state and the individual, in a nation accused of human rights abuses.
‘Street scenes of Hoeryong as seen from the monument of Kim Jong-suk’ by Tariq Zaidi
“Photographing North Korea posed numerous challenges, primarily centred around restricted access and rigorous content scrutiny,” says Zaidi. “The constant presence of guides limited my exploration of neighbourhoods, hindering my desired freedom. A fixed itinerary compelled me to capture images from moving vehicles such as buses and trains, introducing additional challenges.
“Despite these constraints I amassed a substantial collection of images, providing a unique glimpse into the mysterious world of North Korea. The guided experience shaped my interactions and movements, influencing the subjects available for photography. Many scenes were captured on the go due to the hurried itinerary, lending an intriguing dimension to the process.”
‘City street scene from Janam Hill, Kaesong’ by Tariq Zaidi
The official guides had their own interpretation of the restrictions imposed on Zaidi, as the photographer explains wryly.
“They diligently reviewed and removed unacceptable photos daily, underscoring the commitment to photographic excellence. When I questioned them about the deletion process, they very politely said: ‘We only want you to capture the best possible pictures – please strive for excellence in every shot.’ This response brought a smile to my face.”
Zaidi, a former events management executive who has lived in 10 countries, has been a freelance photographer since 2014, focusing on social issues, cultural traditions and marginalised communities. His debut photobook Sapeurs Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congo won him international recognition, while his second, Sin Salida, which explores human rights issues in El Salvador, was honoured in the Amnesty Media Awards 2020 and the International Photography Awards in 2022.
‘Entrance guards share a private moment at the Grand People’s Study House, the main library in the capital city of Pyongyang’ by Tariq Zaidi
One of the most memorable images for the photographer was of a young cellist who he discovered by chance after escaping his group.
“I vividly recall visiting this school to observe the kindergarten and meet students,” Zaidi says. “Upon arrival with fellow tourists and North Korean guides we were hurried to the main auditorium for a children’s performance.
“Taking a detour from the main group I explored other rooms in the school and discovered a girl playing the cello. She continued playing in a small music room while I captured this moment. Shortly after, an official guide insisted I join the main group and not wander around on my own. I was grateful to have found and photographed this girl before leaving.”
‘Girl plays a cello at Chongam Kindergarten, Chongjin’ by Tariq Zaidi
North Korea: The People’s Paradise by Tariq Zaidi is published by Kehrer Verla.
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