What happens if you do something illegal in North Korea?
Christopher Snyder
Updated on March 01, 2026
According to the law of North Korea, such an act is punishable either by a life sentence in prison, or death. In 2016, Otto Warmbier, an American college student, was arrested by North Korean authorities at Pyongyang International Airport, while ready to leave the country.
What is the punishment for crime in North Korea?
Three-generation punishmentIf anyone commits a crime in North Korea, not only he or she will be punished, but also their grandparents, parents and children. This terrible law was created to prevent people from escaping from prison.
What are some illegal things in North Korea?
Tourists are not allowed to use the local national currency of North Korean wons. In local shops for foreigners, one can pay with euros, yuans, South Korean wons, and even US dollars. It is prohibited to buy anything from the shops for local Koreans. Moreover, foreigners are prohibited even to enter such shops.Is going to North Korea illegal?
North Korea - Level 4: Do Not TravelDo not travel to North Korea due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals. You cannot use a U.S. passport to travel to, in, or through North Korea without a special validation from the Department of State.