Pyongyang Metro

Pyongyang Metro

The Pyongyang Metro (평양 지하철도, Pyongyang Jihacheoldo) is the rapid transit system serving North Korea's capital. Opened on 6 September 1973, it is remarkable for two exceptional reasons: it is the deepest metro in the world, with platforms more than 110 metres underground, and its stations rank among the most ornate on the planet — decorated with marble, mosaics, frescoes and crystal chandeliers in a style inspired by the Moscow Metro.

The network comprises 2 lines (Chollima and Hyoksin), 16 stations (15 in regular service) and a total length of 22.5 km. Daily ridership is estimated at between 300,000 and 700,000 passengers. The stations were designed to double as bomb shelters in the event of conflict.

Pyongyang Metro — key facts

History of the Pyongyang Metro

Before the metro was built, Pyongyang had no efficient mass transit: private cars were scarce, bicycles were banned and buses were chronically overcrowded. The solution was an ambitious underground project launched in 1965, importing rolling stock from East Germany and electrical equipment from China.

Construction was carried out under the personal supervision of President Kim Il-sung and with the help of the Korean People's Army. The system was built at exceptional depth to serve as a nuclear shelter network. Between 1973 and 1978, the first 14 stations were opened in stages; the remaining two (Yŏnggwang and Puhŭng) were completed in 1987.

For decades, foreign tourists were only allowed to travel between Yŏnggwang and Puhŭng stations. Today, most stations are accessible, though visitors must always be accompanied by an authorised guide.

Pyongyang Metro

Lines and stations

The Pyongyang Metro has two lines that intersect at Chŏnu station (also called Chŏnsŭng on the Hyoksin line) — the network's only interchange. Stations are spaced an average of 1,500 m apart and are celebrated for their politically themed names and their lavish decoration with statues, murals, marble and light fittings.

Chollima Line (천리마선)

In service since 1973, this line runs north–south along the Taedong River, from Puhŭng in the south to Pulgŭnbyŏl in the north. It has 8 stations over 12 km. Stations from south to north:

Hyoksin Line (혁신선)

In service since 1978, running from Kwangbok in the southwest to Ragwŏn in the northeast. It has 9 stations over 15 km, though trains do not stop at Kwangmyŏng. Stations from southwest to northeast:

Opening hours

The system is closed on the first Monday of every month for maintenance and may also close for state events or official ceremonies. Normal frequency is 5–7 minutes between trains, dropping to 2 minutes during peak hours.

Fares and tickets

Travelling on the Pyongyang Metro is extremely inexpensive. A single journey costs 5–20 KPW, the equivalent of roughly USD 0.01–0.03 at the official exchange rate — making it one of the cheapest metro rides in the world.

Aluminium tokens bearing the metro logo were used for many years. Today, paper tickets printed with the Korean character 지 are in use. Tickets must be validated at the turnstiles before accessing the platforms.

Facilities and points of interest

• Stations decorated with marble, mosaics, frescoes and crystal chandeliers — arguably the most ornate in the world outside Moscow.
• Each station name reflects a political or military theme: "Victory", "Liberation", "Reunification", "Red Star"…
• Built to serve as nuclear and bomb shelters: reinforced steel walls, hermetically sealing doors, capacity for thousands of civilians.
• A small museum within the network traces the metro's history and development.
• Free public toilets at all stations.
• State radio broadcasts and local newspapers available on platforms while waiting for trains.

Pyongyang Metro station

Rules and tips for tourists

• Foreign tourists must always travel with an authorised official guide.
• Photography inside stations requires explicit permission and is sometimes banned entirely.
• Eating, drinking and smoking are prohibited on the metro; violations carry fines.
• Most stations have bus and taxi services nearby.

Future expansion

Plans exist to extend both lines. The Chollima Line is intended to gain Sŏp'o and Ryŏnmot to the north and Ch'ŏngch'un and Mangyongdae to the south. The Hyoksin Line would add Yŏngung and Ch'ilgok to the west of Kwangbok. A longer-term plan envisages a third north–south line crossing the Taedong River.

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Frequently asked questions about the Pyongyang Metro

How much does the Pyongyang Metro cost?
A single ticket costs 5–20 KPW, roughly USD 0.01–0.03 at the official exchange rate. It is one of the cheapest metro systems in the world.

How many lines does the Pyongyang Metro have?
The metro has 2 lines: the Chollima Line (천리마선, open since 1973) and the Hyoksin Line (혁신선, open since 1978), with a single interchange at Chŏnu/Chŏnsŭng station.

Why is the Pyongyang Metro the deepest in the world?
Its platforms lie more than 110 metres underground — designed to function as nuclear shelters. Escalators take approximately 3.5 minutes to cover that distance.

What time does the Pyongyang Metro open?
Service runs from 05:30 to 23:30 every day, except the first Monday of each month when the system closes for maintenance.

Can tourists use the Pyongyang Metro?
Yes, though always accompanied by an official guide. Until recently only Yŏnggwang–Puhŭng was accessible to foreigners; most stations are now open to visitors.