May Day Stadium, North Korea

The new ruler returned the capital to Pyongyang in 427. Two hundred and forty years later, the Korean kingdom Silla together with the Tang dynasty of China occupied the territory of Goguryeo. After that, the Goryeo dynasty became the new rulers in the region. The importance of the capital was increasing, and so the new kings changed the city’s name to Sogyong. North Korea became an independent country only in 1945. At that time, Pyongyang was heavily influenced by the Soviet Union. The capital suffered much damage during the Korean War due to numerous bombings. However, the government managed to restore the city fast when the war was over.

The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, which was formerly known as the Kumsusan Memorial Palace, remains one of the most famous attractions in Pyongyang. Some people informally call it the Kim Il-sung Mausoleum. This large palace complex is the mausoleum and the grave of the great leader and the founder of North Korea - Kim Il-sung. The palace was built in 1976. For many years, it was the residence of Kim Il-sung. When North Korea’s leader died on July 8, 1994, his son ordered to transform the palace into his father’s memorial complex. Tourists are allowed to visit the palace, but they need to be dressed formally to be allowed to enter. All belongings must be left in the reception before the entrance. Visitors are also allowed to have a wristwatch. During a promenade in the corridors of the palace, visitors listen to the biography of Kim Il-sung.
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