World Traveler Shares Strategy for Avoiding Detention in North Korea

Henrik Jeppesen did everything “normal” travelers do, until he tried to do something deeply personal in North Korea, and the country basically hit pause on the whole plan.

He was traveling with a man on a mission: scatter his friend’s ashes in every country in the world. It was already complicated enough, because Jeppesen had spent years building his travel project across thousands of destinations, but North Korea is the one place that doesn’t play by the usual rules. Independent travel is a no, permission for the ashes was denied, and then the plan turned into a risky, defiant act at the DMZ.

And that’s where a touching tribute collided with a border that doesn’t care how heartfelt you think you are.

Global Traveler's Risky Quest: Lessons from North Korea

Embarking on a journey to every corner of the globe is a dream for many, but for Henrik Jeppesen, it became a reality filled with unforeseen challenges and dangers. His encounter with the strict regulations of North Korea serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in his quest for exploration and cultural immersion.

Jeppesen’s first solo trip to Egypt at 17 seems worlds away from the moment his North Korea guides shut down the ashes request.

When visiting such sensitive regions, travelers should familiarize themselves with the state's propaganda and avoid discussions that contradict official narratives. This approach not only ensures safety but also enriches the travel experience.

Henrik Jeppesen's Remarkable Travel Journey

On his blog, Every Country In The World, Henrik Jeppesen shares how, at the age of 17, he set off to travel around Egypt for his first solo adventure. He then started travel blogging in 2009 and has visited 2000 destinations, including every UN-recognised country.

A Danish man himself, Jeppesen shared a particular experience about how he avoided prison in North Korea during his travels there.

Worldly Tribute: Scattering Ashes Across Controversial Territory

He visited the controversial country with a man who had a project to scatter his friend’s ashes in every country in the world. It’s particularly touching as this friend was one of the 'world’s most travelled', but didn’t get the chance to visit every country before his death.

While it's a sentimental idea to scatter his ashes in every country in the world, sadly, North Korea wasn’t so keen.

The man traveling with him, determined to finish the “every country” project, refused to let a flat “no” stop the tribute.

Travel Restrictions: No Independent Travel Allowed

The country is the only one in the world where you do not have independent travel freedom, and when he asked his travel guides for permission to scatter his friend's ashes, the answer was no.

The man Henrik was travelling with was determined to finish his project though, and so he decided to spread the ashes anyway, and even take a selfie-video of himself spreading them at the North Korean side of the DMZ - the demilitarized zone that divides the Korean Peninsula in two.

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After permission was denied, the decision to scatter the ashes anyway, plus a selfie-video at the North Korean side of the DMZ, is where things got dangerous fast.

Security Check at Pyongyang Airport: Camera Inspection Required

On the way back to North Korea’s capital, the guides asked him to check his camera.

They eventually managed to get to Pyongyang International Airport, where there was a group of North Koreans who again asked to see his electronic equipment.

Controversial Discovery in North Korea

After thoroughly checking through this and his camera, they finally stumbled upon the precious photo of him spreading his friend’s ashes.

This discovery was unfortunately met with hostility as the traveller was told he had 'polluted' North Korea. Both Henrik and the man he was travelling with were startled at this point, as they didn’t know if they would be detained.

Thankfully, the two were not arrested, and instead, it was decided that an apology letter would be the best way forward.

It all worked out after this, but it is another example of North Korea’s strict rules for the small handful of tourists who can visit.

Now you can see why a trip built on access and curiosity suddenly turned into a survival test in a place that controls movement at every step.

Totalitarian State: Restrictions on Freedom of Expression

With it being a totalitarian state, there are strict rules that prohibit freedom of expression and violation of these rules can result in harsh punishment. For example, all media is strictly controlled by the government.

Travelers are advised to engage with organizations that specialize in North Korean tourism, ensuring they understand the rules and guidelines to avoid detention.

Organizations like NK Tours provide insights into acceptable behaviors and cultural norms, which can be crucial for a safe journey. Additionally, having a reliable guide can help in navigating complex situations and ensuring adherence to local laws.

Traveling to North Korea poses unique challenges that require careful planning and cultural awareness. By understanding the intricacies of North Korean society and adhering to local regulations, travelers can significantly reduce the risk of detention. Engaging with reputable travel organizations and knowledgeable guides not only enhances safety but also enriches the overall experience. A respectful approach to cultural sensitivities is essential in ensuring a rewarding journey through one of the world’s most secretive nations.

That selfie-video was supposed to be a memorial, but in North Korea it turned into the whole reason the trip could go sideways.

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