7 Everyday Items Banned from North Korean Stores

Ever thought about what a quick shopping trip in North Korea looks like? Spoiler: it’s nothing like what you’re used to. The government controls what’s sold, and plenty of everyday stuff is straight-up banned. Some of these make sense (well, to them), but others are completely random. Here are a few things you just can’t buy there.

Say Goodbye to Your Favorite Jeans

If you love a good pair of blue jeans, tough luck. Denim—especially in blue—is seen as a symbol of Western influence, and that’s a big no-no. Black jeans sometimes slip through, but if someone catches you in blue, you could land in serious trouble.

No Coke, No Pepsi, No Nothing

Coca-Cola is everywhere—except North Korea. American brands are not allowed in the country, so the world’s favorite soda is off-limits. Locals have to make do with North Korean knockoffs, but let’s be honest… it’s just not the same.

Forget Flipping Through a Magazine

North Korea bans all foreign media. Magazines, newspapers, and even travel brochures are illegal. The only news allowed is whatever the officials publish, and it’s very one-sided.

Hair Dye? Not Happening

Thinking about a bold new hair color? Not in North Korea. Strict grooming rules are enforced and dyeing your hair is seen as a rebellious Western trend. Everyone’s expected to keep their natural color, and only government-approved hairstyles are allowed.

That Fancy Lipstick? Better Hide It

Makeup from South Korea, Japan, or the U.S. is not permitted. Only cosmetics manufactured in North Korea are promoted. But smuggled brands still make their way in.

Tampons? Most Women Don’t Even Know They Exist

Pads? Yes. Tampons? Nowhere to be found. They aren’t on the official list but are simply not sold. Most North Korean women have never even heard of them. If you want them, you’ll need to find a way to smuggle them in from China.

Chocolate Bars? Don’t Even Think About It

Imported chocolate is also off-limits. If you’re craving a Snickers, you’re out of luck. Only the country’s elite or people visiting can get their hands on the good stuff. The locals have to settle for whatever sweets are produced within the country—if they can find any at all.

South Korean Instant Noodles? Nope.

People love instant noodles here, but South Korean brands are totally disallowed. You cannot own any items or products that have come from the country’s southern neighbor. That doesn’t stop people from smuggling them in, though. In fact, this product is one of the most sought-after black market items.

Watching an American Movie Could Land You in Prison

Forget Titanic or Avengers—Hollywood movies are illegal. The only films allowed are government-made propaganda. But people still risk watching external movies in secret. If caught, the punishments are brutal, sometimes even life-threatening.

K-Pop? Not a Chance

No BTS, no Blackpink, no Western pop either. If it’s not government-approved, it’s forbidden. Officials even check people’s devices for illegal music. Still, people find ways to listen—usually with smuggled USBs.

Flash Drives Are Considered Weapons

USB drives might seem harmless, but in North Korea, they’re seen as dangerous tools. That’s because these devices are often used to smuggle in music, movies, and news from other countries. If authorities find one during a random search, you could end up in a labor camp.

Want a Drink? Stick to Local Booze

North Korea has its own liquor, but imported alcohol is a no-go for regular people. Only high-ranking officials and visitors get access to this whiskey or wine. Everyone else has to make do with local brews—if they can afford them.

Nike and Adidas? Not in Your Closet

Big-name sneaker brands are off-limits. The people in charge push their own locally made footwear instead. But if you really want a pair of Nikes, you might find them on the black market—just be prepared to pay a lot.