Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to present policy implications by analyzing the residential environment in North Korea under the Kim Jong-un regime. Research design, data, and methodology: Residential environment analysis was reviewed by dividing it into physical, socio-cultural, economic, environmental, and policy aspects. Results: Pyongyang are considerably superior due to it being the residence of the country's leadership and middle class. Secondly, there is a concerning problem with the provision of substandard housing. Construction materials are in short supply, and unreasonable timelines often lead to uninhabitable houses, signaling a need for assistance in housing construction. Thirdly, there is a severe lack of essential residential infrastructure, such as reliable electricity and clean water supply, which significantly impacts the quality of life. Lastly, due to the country's economic hardships, basic housing rights are not guaranteed, leading to deplorable living conditions for many North Koreans. The report suggests that these issues should be addressed through international aid to guarantee the basic human rights of North Koreans. Conclusions: In North Korea, the poor living environment deteriorates the health and quality of life of citizens and adversely affects social and economic development. Therefore, international support and cooperation to improve the living environment of North Koreans is important.