There have been testimonies from foreigners that a Western-style consumption culture is taking root among certain upper-class members in North Korea.
The New York Times (NYT) reported on the 24th (local time) based on videos secured from three foreigners, including tourists and students who recently visited North Korea.
A Chinese language student pointed to 'Nangrang Aeguk Geumganggwan' as the top shopping destination in Pyongyang.
This place sells furniture, kitchenware, groceries, and is referred to as 'North Korean IKEA' among Chinese students, with some products confirmed to have the same designs, packaging, and names as IKEA products.
Additionally, there is a coffee shop called 'Mirae Reserve' that imitates Starbucks' premium store 'Reserve.' He noted, 'I paid $25 for three cups of coffee,' adding that 'prices in Pyongyang are quite expensive.'
Swedish national Johan Nillander, who participated in the Pyongyang marathon in April, said, 'Most payments in North Korea are made via QR codes and other mobile phone-based systems,' and that 'residents used apps similar to those in the West for watching videos, messaging, hailing taxis, and shopping.'
Recently, Russian tourist Daria Zhivkova, who visited the Wonsan-Kalma coastal tourist area, said, 'It felt like a perfectly decorated painting,' as she enjoyed American, Japanese, and Chinese beers along with seafood barbecue, and shared her experience of buying UGG boots that she couldn't find in Russia. She revealed that she paid about $1,400 (1,940,000 won) for a week-long tour package.
Due to international sanctions, it is impossible for foreign corporations to officially distribute luxury goods or run joint ventures in North Korea. In response, Starbucks has stated that it has no stores in North Korea, and IKEA also noted that it will closely monitor for intellectual property rights infringement and take necessary measures if needed.