List of Newspapers in North Korea by Language – English, Korean and More
North Korea’s media landscape is tightly controlled, with newspapers serving as key propaganda tools. The most prominent is Rodong Sinmun (로동신문), the official newspaper of the Workers' Party of Korea, published in Korean.
For English speakers, The Pyongyang Times provides state-approved news, covering politics, culture, and international relations. Choson Sinbo, a Japan-based pro-North Korean paper, offers news in Korean, Japanese, and occasionally English. Other notable publications include Minju Joson (Democratic Korea), focusing on government affairs, and Rodongja Sinmun (Workers’ Newspaper), targeting labor-related topics.
While access to independent journalism is restricted, these newspapers offer insights into North Korea’s official stance. For those seeking North Korea news, these sources—though heavily censored—remain primary outlets for understanding the regime’s narratives.
Table of Contents:
Korean-Language Publications
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Rodong Sinmun (로동신문)
The official newspaper of the Workers' Party of Korea, Rodong Sinmun is North Korea’s most authoritative news source, covering state policies, leader activities, and ideological guidance. It’s best known for its propaganda and strict alignment with government directives.
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Minju Joson (민주조선)
The official publication of the DPRK’s Cabinet, Minju Joson focuses on government policies, economic plans, and administrative updates. It’s recognized for its detailed reports on domestic industry and infrastructure projects.
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Choson Sinbo (조선신보)
Operated by pro-Pyongyang Korean residents in Japan, Choson Sinbo provides news from a DPRK-aligned perspective. It’s known for covering North Korea-Japan relations and cultural exchanges.
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Uriminzokkiri (우리민족끼리)
A state-run propaganda outlet, Uriminzokkiri promotes Korean reunification and anti-US messaging. It’s best known for its multimedia content, including videos and articles targeting South Korea.
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Naenara (내나라)
North Korea’s official web portal, Naenara offers news, cultural content, and government announcements. It’s recognized for its curated propaganda and limited access to foreign audiences.
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Ryugyong (류경)
A digital news outlet providing updates on North Korean society, economy, and international relations. It’s known for its polished state-approved narratives and occasional multimedia features.
English-Language Publications
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Korean Central News Agency (KCNA)
The official state news agency of North Korea, KCNA delivers government statements, leader activities, and foreign policy positions. It’s best known for its propagandistic tone and breaking news on missile tests.
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DPRK Today (조선오늘)
A state-run outlet offering news on North Korea’s achievements in science, sports, and industry. It’s recognized for its hyperbolic success stories and anti-Western rhetoric.
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The Pyongyang Times
North Korea’s oldest English-language newspaper, The Pyongyang Times covers international diplomacy, cultural events, and economic developments. It’s best known for its heavily curated, tourist-friendly content.
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Voice of Korea
A state-run broadcasting service offering news in multiple languages, including English. It’s known for its radio broadcasts and pro-regime narratives aimed at foreign audiences.
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Arirang-Meari (아리랑-메아리)
A propaganda outlet focusing on Korean reunification and anti-imperialist messaging. It’s best known for its nationalist rhetoric and coverage of inter-Korean relations.
Multilingual Publications
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Rodong Sinmun (English Edition)
The English version of North Korea’s leading state newspaper, offering translated articles on leadership activities and ideological campaigns. It’s best known for its rigidly controlled narratives.
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KCNA Watch
An independent aggregator of KCNA content, providing translated North Korean news in English. It’s recognized for making DPRK propaganda accessible to researchers and analysts.
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Tongil Voice (통일의 소리)
A pro-DPRK outlet broadcasting in multiple languages, including Russian and Chinese. It’s best known for its reunification-focused content and anti-US stance.
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Korea.net (South Korean Gov’t)
South Korea’s official multilingual portal, offering a counter-narrative to DPRK media. It’s known for promoting K-culture and democratic values.
Other Language Publications
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Le Monde Diplomatique (Korean Edition)
A Korean-language edition of the French publication, often featuring pro-North Korean perspectives. It’s known for its left-leaning geopolitical analysis.
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People's Korea (Japanese)
A pro-DPRK newspaper in Japan, providing news in Japanese for Chongryon-affiliated Koreans. It’s recognized for its loyalty to Pyongyang’s policies.
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China-DPRK Friendship News (중조친선신문)
A Chinese-language publication promoting Sino-North Korean relations. It’s best known for highlighting bilateral trade and diplomatic engagements.
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Russia-DPRK Today (러시아-조선오늘)
A Russian-language news source covering North Korea-Russia relations. It’s known for reporting on joint economic and military cooperation.
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Korean Bulletin (Spanish/French Editions)
A multilingual propaganda bulletin distributed in select countries. It’s recognized for its tailored messaging to Latin American and African audiences.
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DPRK Sci-Tech (과학기술)
A state-run outlet highlighting North Korea’s scientific achievements in multiple languages. It’s best known for exaggerated claims of technological advancements.