A drone pilot claims to have captured footage from inside North Korea, offering a rare glimpse into the secretive nation.
Known for its strict control over information and tourism, North Korea has barred many tourists since 2020. However, recent easing of these restrictions has stirred interest.
One individual decided to take a different approach to see North Korea without actually entering the country. While in China, they flew a drone over the border, capturing images and footage of the region. The footage, shared on Reddit, quickly went viral, amassing approximately 144,000 upvotes.
The drone images revealed a large building adorned with portraits of Kim Il-sung, North Korea’s founder, and Kim Jong-il. The streets appeared deserted, with no vehicles and few pedestrians visible, although the exact time of the footage remains unclear. In some clips, people on the ground can be seen pointing at the drone.
Drone pics of North Korea, I was in China, my drone flew across the border
byu/XiaoHao2 inpics
Social media users had plenty to say about the footage. One commented on the lack of street drainage and traffic lights, describing the scene as resembling a “concrete model of a city.” Another found the eeriness of the almost-empty city unsettling. A third noted the absence of cars, people, and trash, calling it bizarre.
Many expressed concerns about the drone pilot’s safety and the potential repercussions of their actions. One user remarked on the danger of the stunt, while another humorously suggested the pilot had “singlehandedly invaded North Korea.” Others speculated about the ease with which the drone crossed the border, with one user joking about the simplicity of using a $500 drone compared to expensive spy satellites.
Some users highlighted the cordial relationship between China and North Korea, suggesting that even if the drone had been intercepted, it might not lead to severe consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What did the drone footage from North Korea show?
The footage showed a large building with images of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, empty streets, and few pedestrians.
How did people react to the drone footage on social media?
Reactions were mixed, with some finding it bizarre and others commenting on the lack of cars, people, and street drainage.
Is it legal to fly a drone over North Korea?
Flying a drone over North Korea is highly dangerous and could lead to serious consequences.
Why was the drone footage from North Korea considered dangerous?
The stunt could potentially cause an international incident and is risky due to North Korea’s strict control and secrecy.
Why did some people find the drone footage disturbing?
The footage was unsettling due to the lack of typical city elements like traffic and trash, making it appear like an artificial city.