In January 2020, North Korea has officially closed its borders. But even before that date, photographing the enigmatic landscapes of North Korea posed immense challenges due to the regime’s strict…

In January 2020, North Korea has officially closed its borders. But even before that date, photographing the enigmatic landscapes of North Korea posed immense challenges due to the regime’s strict control and prohibition of unauthorized photography. However, armed with a vast archive of images captured painstakingly over two years, Tariq Zaidi curates a selection of more than 100 remarkable photographs that offer a glimpse into North Korean society. Zaidi’s lens skilfully captures the resilience, spirit, and cultural nuances of the North Korean people in their everyday lives. Each photograph acts as a window into a hidden reality, unveiling the intricate interplay between tradition and modernity while illuminating the complex dynamics of a nation navigating its path amid global scrutiny. Following the award-winning Sapeurs. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congo, this is Zaidi’s second publication with Kehrer Verlag.