Explore Pyongyang’s Stunning Architecture: A Complete Tour

Architectural Wonders of Pyongyang

Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, is known for its striking architecture. The city uniquely reflects a combination of socialist modernist and brutalist styles, which are distinctly showcased in its many structures.

Pyongyang International Cinema House

A gigantic hall featuring several screening rooms able to fit up to 3,000 seats in its largest.
“A gigantic hall featuring several screening rooms able to fit up to 3,000 seats in its largest. It is a pure example of Pyongyang’s brutalist architecture. All in bare, raw concrete with modern shapes and sharp edges, brutalist buildings like this one can be found all around the city but this one is probably the most impressive of them all, and could make for a perfect science fiction film set.”

Emblematic Hotels

This hotel is probably the most emblematic building of Pyongyang and is still undergoing construction.
“This hotel is probably the most emblematic building of Pyongyang and is still undergoing construction. Towering over the city at 330 meters (1082 feet) high, its infrastructure is made entirely of concrete which gives this solid futurist look — like a very heavy spaceship that will never take off.”

Deepest Metro System

One of the deepest metro systems in the world.
“One of the deepest metro systems in the world, it is accessed by very long and steep escalators. It is also used as a bomb shelter due to its depth.”

Contemporary Monuments

This monument is made from raw granite stone.
“Completed in 1995, this monument is quite a recent structure yet very much follows the architectural line of Pyongyang. It’s made from raw granite stone and radiates harshness, struggle and strength.”

Health Complexes

One of multiple pools at the health complex.
“One of multiple pools as well as saunas, spas, massage rooms and barber shops in the complex. Completed in 1981, it showcases pure modernist architectural features and very carefully arranged interiors, notably the tile work.”

Socialist Modernist Style

Atrium view of the Changgwang-won health complex.
“Atrium view of the Changgwang-won health complex. The building’s circular form made of raw concrete reflects a socialist modernist style. The tips of the Ice Rink and Ryugyong Hotel can be seen in the background.”

Symbolic Structures

Monument symbolizing the two Koreas.
“This sits on the outskirts of Pyongyang. The two women symbolize the two Koreas and the desire of reunification. Like many other monuments in the country, it is made from solid granite stone.”

Sports Infrastructure

A street in Pyongyang dedicated to sports.
“This is a street in Pyongyang dedicated to sports with numerous specialized stadiums including volleyball, taekwondo, swimming, badminton, football or pictured here, wrestling.”

Architectural Style and Environment

A remote piece of modernist architecture.
“A remote piece of modernist architecture used only as a quick stop for tourists on the way to visit the DMZ. It stays quiet most of the time with very little traffic passing through but has a warm presence of its own and sits with dignity in the empty landscape.”

Unique Facilities

Completed in 1982, the ice rink has a retro feel.
“Completed in 1982, the ice rink has a very retro feel while still retaining a futuristic edge.”

Community Spaces

A multi-function space for youth activities.
“A multi-function space for the youth to practice music, dancing, theater and other activities. Yet another good example of brutalist architecture.”

Conclusion

Pyongyang’s architecture serves as a powerful representation of its historical and cultural narrative. The city showcases a distinct blend of modernist and brutalist elements, which offer a unique insight into North Korea’s vision of progress and identity. Through its iconic buildings, monuments, and urban spaces, visitors can appreciate the efforts to shape a specific architectural identity.


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