Is There a McDonald’s in North Korea?

If you're planning a trip to North Korea — or just curious — you may wonder if American brands like McDonald’s have made it into the Hermit Kingdom.

Here’s the truth behind the question.

The Short Answer: No

There is no McDonald’s in North Korea. The country is one of the few places in the world where the fast food giant has never operated, and likely won’t anytime soon.

Why McDonald’s Doesn’t Operate in North Korea

Several factors make North Korea a non-starter for multinational corporations:

- Political isolation: The regime tightly controls foreign influence, especially Western brands
- Economic sanctions: International sanctions restrict trade and investment with North Korea
- Lack of consumer freedom: There's no open market where franchises can legally operate
- Brand control: McDonald’s must maintain quality, supply chains, and brand consistency — impossible in North Korea

Even tourism is tightly controlled, with most visits restricted to state-led tours.

Rumors About Secret Deliveries

There have been unverified rumors over the years — including reports in 2011 that Kim Jong-il had McDonald’s burgers flown in from China. Some speculate that elite North Koreans import foreign goods privately.

But there's no public access, no storefronts, and no authorized McDonald’s anywhere in the country.

What Kind of Fast Food Exists in North Korea?

While global chains are banned, North Korea has attempted its own versions of fast food:

- Samtaesong: A state-run hamburger chain based in Pyongyang
- Cold noodles, rice cakes, and dumpling shops**: Served in quick-service settings
- Korean-style pizza: Available at tourist-focused restaurants

These establishments are heavily curated and monitored, with menus mimicking Western styles but adapted for local tastes.

The Role of State-Controlled Restaurants

Restaurants in North Korea are:

- Government-owned
- Staffed by trained, vetted workers
- Geared toward locals and foreign tourists under surveillance

Menu pricing is often opaque, and foreigners typically pay in foreign currency, separate from locals.

Final Thoughts: No Golden Arches Behind the DMZ

There’s no McDonald’s in North Korea, and there likely won’t be for the foreseeable future. The country remains closed off from nearly all Western commerce — including global fast food.

While the idea of grabbing a Big Mac in Pyongyang might sound intriguing, it remains fantasy. For now, those seeking fast food while traveling in the region will have better luck in nearby China or South Korea.