Verified Facts
The cost of utilities and internet in North Korea can be difficult to determine due to the country's restrictive and isolated nature, but estimates suggest that a monthly utility bill for an 85 sqm apartment can range from $50 to $100 USD.
Quick Facts
Utility Costs Overview
The utility infrastructure in North Korea is relatively underdeveloped, with frequent power outages and water shortages affecting many areas of the country. The costs of utilities in North Korea can fluctuate greatly depending on the season, with winter months often seeing higher costs due to increased demand for heating. The government has implemented measures to stabilize prices, but the overall cost of utilities remains relatively high compared to other countries in the region.
The quality of utility services in North Korea varies greatly depending on the location, with cities like Pyongyang generally having better access to reliable utilities than rural areas. The government has invested in upgrading the country's utility infrastructure, but much work remains to be done to bring the system up to modern standards. As a result, the cost of utilities in North Korea can be unpredictable and may vary greatly from one month to the next.
Monthly Utility Bills
| Utility | Small Apt (45 sqm) | Medium Apt (85 sqm) | Large Apt (120 sqm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $20 | $30 | $40 | |
| Water | $10 | $15 | $20 | |
| Gas / Heating | $15 | $25 | $35 | |
| Garbage / Municipal | $5 | $5 | $5 | (included in water bill) |
| Total | $50 | $75 | $100 |
Internet & Phone Plans
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Speed / Allowance | Provider Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Internet (basic) | $50-70 | 10 Mbps | Korea Computer Center |
| Fiber Internet (fast) | $100-150 | 60 Mbps | Star Joint Venture |
| Mobile Data (prepaid) | $10-30 | 1-5 GB | Koryolink |
| Mobile Data (postpaid) | $30-50 | 5-10 GB | Koryolink |
| Phone + Internet Bundle | $70-120 | varies | Star Joint Venture |
Streaming & Digital Services
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (standard) | Not available | |
| Spotify (premium) | Not available | |
| Local Streaming | $5-10 | (limited selection) |
Utility Tips
- To set up utilities in North Korea, it is often necessary to work through a local agency or government office, which can be a time-consuming and bureaucratic process.
- Prepaid electricity plans are available, but postpaid plans are more common and may offer better rates for heavy users.
- The best internet providers in North Korea are generally considered to be Korea Computer Center and Star Joint Venture, although service can be unreliable and slow.
- To save on utility bills, it is recommended to use energy-efficient appliances and to take steps to conserve water and heat.
- It is also a good idea to research local providers and plans to find the best option for your specific needs and budget.