North Korea Faces Traffic Jams and Parking Issues Amid Rise in Private Cars

For the first time, North Korea is experiencing traffic congestion and parking shortages, particularly in its capital, Pyongyang. This shift is driven by a significant increase in private vehicle ownership, including electric cars, which are often imported illegally from China to circumvent international sanctions against the Kim regime. Traditionally, vehicles in the isolated nation were state or military-owned, identified by blue and black license plates. However, yellow license plates, indicating private ownership, are becoming increasingly common. Verified images from social media reveal that registration numbers on these yellow plates have reached five digits, leading experts to predict that the total number of vehicles will exceed 20,000 next year. While this surge marks a notable change in daily life for some citizens, it does not necessarily imply broader political liberalization. Despite the growing number of private cars, dictator Kim Jong-un is unlikely to face significant traffic during his official travels. The emergence of these modern urban problems highlights the complex economic realities and illicit trade networks sustaining certain segments of North Korean society despite strict global embargoes.