Photo credit: Andrew Lombardi

In 2011, we spent a mind-blowing week in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, which had recently opened its borders to American tourists.

What began as adventure travel became a journey into the captivating region north of the de-militarized zone.

Our hunger for information about North Korea grew to obsession. Conversations with citizens, journalists, diplomats and other experts — who shared perspectives and data never before documented — inspired us to share the hours of conversation and thousands of photographs from our journey.

Welcome to The North Korea Blog.

With the help of our friends and travel buddies — the talented photographers and writers credited throughout — we hope that this site provides another view of the country: a glimpse into its people, its way of life, its culture and its policies. We also hope that the site inspires you to visit the DPRK, because it is one of the most staggering places in the world.

If you are new to the site, we recommend starting with a series of pieces written by Gabriel Mizrahi about the hermit kingdom. Then enjoy our photo gallery and other articles.

Gan Bae!

Creators

Jordan Harbinger

Jordan has always had an affinity for social influence, interpersonal dynamics and social engineering, helping private companies test the security of their communications systems and working with law enforcement agencies before he was even old enough to drive.

Jordan has spent several years abroad in Europe and the developing world, including South America, Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and speaks several languages. He has also worked for various governments and NGOs overseas, traveled through war-zones, and been kidnapped — twice.

He’ll tell you: The only reason he’s still alive and kicking is because of his ability to talk his way into (and out of) just about any type of situation. At The Art of Charm, Jordan shares that experience, and the system born as a result, with students and clients.

www.theartofcharm.com

Gabriel Mizrahi

Gabriel has worked as a management consultant, advising media, technology and banking clients on their strategy and operations. In Spanish and French, Gabriel helped companies acquire their rivals, develop Latin-American mobile networks, master DVD distribution and build new entertainment ventures. Working with innovative companies around the world ignited a love for economics and adventure.

While on the road, Gabriel began writing articles, pop music, comedy and scripts. The travel obsession continued — his passport now stuffed with visas and drenched in ink — until one afternoon he received the invitation to visit the hermit kingdom of North Korea. The experience changed his life.

Gabriel now writes and speaks regularly, deeply influenced by his travels and experiences.

www.gabrielmizrahi.com