North Korea's internet access is shrouded in secrecy and heavily restricted. Forget casually browsing cat videos – for the vast majority of citizens, the global internet is simply nonexistent. A select few, primarily those in positions of power, students at elite universities, and researchers, are granted access to the country's tightly controlled intranet, known as Kwangmyong.
Kwangmyong offers a limited selection of state-approved websites, email services, and a search engine. Content is carefully curated to promote the regime's ideology and prevent exposure to outside influences. While some reports suggest increased connectivity for elites, the digital divide between the privileged few and the general population remains stark. The flow of information is meticulously managed, reinforcing the country's isolation and reinforcing the government's narrative. Exploring the reality of North Korean internet access offers a chilling look at the power of information control in the 21st century.