Introduction
The mention of retirement abroad evokes images of beautiful places with peaceful landscapes and rich cultures. More often than not, Spain, Thailand, or Portugal could fit a person’s idea of the perfect retirement spot due to the great lifestyle and friendly atmosphere. There is, however, one place that does not appear on any retiree’s wish list, and that is North Korea. Known to be politically isolated with strict regulations and a very structured social life, North Korea has a bundle of issues that make it impracticable to retirement. The following blog post describes why North Korea will never be an ideal destination for retirement, covering the main reasons and some practical considerations that make the majority of retirees consider living in this country.
Political and Social Isolation
One major reason, among many others, that rules North Korea out as an ideal retirement destination is the extreme political and social isolation within which it has been living. This is an extremely rigid authoritarian state with complete control over life. The country, headed by the Kim dynasty, is ruled and administered in a very secretive and controlled environment, and quite impossible to penetrate by any outsider.
This also applies to the foreign retiree, who is put under tight regulations and restrictions. The North Korean Government has an eye on every tourist or resident; there is limited freedom of movement and communication. Retirees would find such freedom and control difficult to live with since their daily activities are scrutinized.
Lack of Access to Basic Services:
For most, retirement probably means reliance on quality healthcare, a comfortable living environment, and accessible services. On the other hand, North Korea’s infrastructure and public services are far removed from what any retiree would want to experience. North Korea has an underdeveloped health system with few medical supplies or equipment available for procedures. Even in Pyongyang, the capital, one is far from any modern facilities, and the standard may not be up to international standards.
Similarly, some basic services like electricity, water, and reliable transport are very spotty and unreliable. Most towns outside the capital face constant power and infrastructure deficits, which would become serious challenges to enjoying retirement for people habituated to most conveniences and trappings of modernity.
Limited Mobility and Communication
As far as many retirees are concerned, what counts most is having the freedom to move around, being able to see surrounding environments, and not losing touch with old friends and relations. This, in North Korea, is highly restricted. Each foreigner is forced to move around with government-approved guides; some places are allowed, while most are not allowed. This freedom would be severely curtailed on the retiree, badly limiting their ability to freely explore and enjoy the new environment.
Another major issue is communication. North Korea has very restricted internet access, and most international websites and social media are banned. Even the simplest of communications with the outside world could be tough due to strict monitoring of phone calls and internet access. For a retiree trying to maintain contact with loved ones back home, such restrictions would pose a serious problem.
Economic and Financial Considerations
More critical to retirement planning would be financial stability and access to banking services. On both these counts, neither the state of North Korea’s economy nor its financial infrastructure is very promising for a comfortable retirement. It runs a state-dominated economy with limited private enterprise and market activity.
Also, foreign retirees would find it challenging to handle finances since the setup of the banking system is not cut out for international transactions. The retirees would not get any of the international services on finance, and they would experience a lot of complications while handling their finances, especially due to restrictions on foreign currencies.
Cultural and Social Integration:
Cultural and social integration is one of the major elements that create an enriching experience in retirement. Many retired people try to embrace local culture and make friends within their new community. North Korea is a country whose culture is strictly aligned with the ideology of the ruling party, supported by strictly controlled media. Opportunities for contacting local communities and joining in cultural events are extremely limited.
Socialization with foreigners is limited and closely monitored; it is not likely that it would be possible for anyone to retire here and have many opportunities for meaningful relationships or social integration into North Korean society. Isolation from the local culture and social life would detract significantly from the experience of retirement.
Alternative Destinations for Retirees
Given the myriad issues associated with retiring in North Korea, retirees would do much better to consider other countries that are more conducive and practical towards hosting retirees. The vast majority of countries have beautiful options waiting for retirees with great infrastructure, reliable healthcare, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Some destinations, such as Thailand, Spain, and Portugal, offer a high quality of life at very affordable living expenses and with friendly local and expatriate communities that make it easy for retirees to adjust and enjoy their golden years in an enriching environment.
Conclusion:
While retiring in North Korea might be very attractive to some because of its very special political and cultural environment, the reality for a retiree living there contains so many insurmountable obstacles. In a country with extreme political isolation, a lack of access to basic services, restricted movements and communication, and economic constraints, such features rule out the possibility of it being a retirement destination.
This means British pensioners and pensioners aiming to retire abroad should seek a place that guarantees independence, comfort, and quality of life in one’s retirement. It is more rewarding and pleasurable retirement if one finds countries with better-established infrastructure, supportive communities, and easily accessible services.
In summary, if not a fascinating and complex country, North Korea is not feasible for retirement. Instead, focus on destinations that align with your retirement goals and offer more practical and comfortable living.
Ray Brocklesby, the site owner, is a Brit who now lives in the Philippines. He is retired and lives with his wife Weng, Daughter Kristelle, nephews, Harvey and Boknoy, and mother-in-law. Ray also has a son and daughter living in the UK, and a son in New Zealand.
