In September of last year, graphic artist Eric Testroete and his girlfriend spent nine days as tourists in North Korea. They went back in February for Kim Jong Il's birthday.
Testroete said he was always fascinated by the thought of going into such a restricted country and booked a trip through a travel agency.
Even though he was well-aware of the extent of government control and poverty, many images still shocked him.
Testroete shared exclusive images from his visit and described what was happening in his own words.
"Students and dancers perform at the Arirang Mass Games in Pyongyang, the capital city of North Korea. The background mosaic is made up of children holding large books opened to a certain color to create the image. 100,000 performers are said to participate in the show."
Source: Eric Testroete
"The Koryo hotel in Pyongyang after sunset. Since North Korea has had power issues since the 90's, much of the city remains dark at night with many apartments only lit with a single fluorescent bulb. However, many of the cities most important landmarks are lit with floodlights."
Source: Eric Testroete
"Children perform at the Mangyongdae Children's Palace, a school that allows students to study extracurricular activities. The children here are extremely disciplined as well as talented."
Source: Eric Testroete
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