The capital, a self-governing city, is the political and cultural center of the country. While it’s the most visited, there’s much more to see in the surrounding provinces.

Pyongyang is one of the oldest cities in Korea, having served as the capital of Gojoseon and Goguryeo. After North Korea was established in 1948, Pyongyang became its capital. The city was rebuilt with Soviet assistance after being devastated during the Korean War.