North Korea Phone Numbers: Complete Guide to +850 Country Code, Format & Validation

Learn how to call North Korea using country code +850, understand DPRK phone number formats, and navigate the complex telecommunications system. This comprehensive guide covers domestic and international dialing procedures, mobile networks (Koryolink and Kangsong NET), area codes for major cities like Pyongyang, and critical sanctions compliance requirements for developers and businesses.

How Do North Korea Phone Numbers Work? Understanding the +850 Country Code

North Korea's telecommunications infrastructure is managed by the Korea Post and Telecommunications Corporation (KPTC), under oversight of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. The country uses the +850 country code (assigned by ITU under the E.164 standard) for all international calls. The system is highly centralized, with strict controls and limited access for ordinary citizens.

Why Access is So Restricted

Phone ownership is primarily restricted to government officials, state-owned enterprises, and collective farms. According to the International Telecommunication Union, North Korea has only 1.2 million fixed-line telephones, with most phones installed exclusively for senior government officials. Someone wanting a landline installed must fill out a form indicating their rank, justification for needing a phone, and payment method. Amnesty International reports that the state maintains "absolute and systematic control of all forms of telecommunications" and actively spies on citizens through mass surveillance programmes.

Network Quality and Reliability

Call quality and service reliability are significantly below international standards. The network infrastructure, while modernized with fiber optic cables in some areas, suffers from:

• Limited capacity: Network congestion is common, particularly during peak hours
• Service disruptions: Power outages and infrastructure limitations cause frequent interruptions
• 3G predominance: The vast majority of users still rely on 3G networks with data speeds well below global standards
• No fallback switching: Mobile devices do not automatically switch to 3G when 4G signal is weak, causing dropped connections

While the system has undergone some modernization, including the introduction of mobile networks, access remains tightly controlled and monitored.

North Korea Phone Number Format: Area Codes and Number Structure

The domestic calling system uses a hierarchical structure based on ITU-T registration (last updated 2011):

• National Prefix: 0 (for inter-regional calls)
• Country Code: +850 (assigned by ITU under E.164 standard)
• Area Codes: Single-digit codes for major regions:
  • 2 – Pyongyang (capital)
  • 31 – Pyongsong (South Phyongan)
  • 39 – Nampo
  • 41 – Sariwon (North Hwanghae)
  • 45 – Haeju (South Hwanghae)
  • 49 – Kaesong (North Hwanghae)
  • 53 – Hamhung (South Hamgyong)
  • 57 – Wonsan (Kangwon)
  • 61 – Sinuiju (North Phyongan)
  • 67 – Kanggye (Jagang)
  • 73 – Chongjin (North Hamgyong)
  • 79 – Hyesan (Ryanggang)
  • 085 – Rason Special Economic Zone (3-digit code)
• Subscriber Numbers: Typically 6–7 digits for landlines
• Mobile Prefixes:
  • 0191 – Koryolink WCDMA Network
  • 0192 – Koryolink WCDMA Network
  • 0193 – SunNet GSM900 Network (discontinued in 2004)
  • 0195 – Kangsong NET WCDMA/4G LTE Network
• Number Length:
  • Pyongyang landlines: 8 digits total (2-digit area code + 7-digit subscriber number)
  • Rason Special Economic Zone: 8 digits total (3-digit area code + 6-digit subscriber number)
  • Mobile numbers: 10 digits total (4-digit prefix + 7-digit subscriber number)

How to Make Domestic Calls in North Korea

Prerequisites for Making Calls:

Before making any calls in North Korea, users must:

• Possess authorized phone service: Only government officials, state-owned enterprises, and approved entities can obtain phone service
• Register with authorities: All phone ownership requires registration with government telecommunications authorities
• Maintain quarterly service fees: Users must pay service fees on a quarterly basis to maintain active service
• Comply with monitoring: All calls are subject to government monitoring and recording

Domestic Dialing Procedures:

• Landline to Landline: 0 + [Area Code] + [Subscriber Number] (e.g., 0 2 123456 for Pyongyang)
• Landline to Mobile: 0 + [Mobile Prefix] + [Subscriber Number] (e.g., 0 191 1234567)
• Mobile to Mobile: [Mobile Prefix] + [Subscriber Number] (e.g., 191 1234567)
• Local Calls (Within the Same Area): While you can dial just the subscriber number, using the full format (including the area code and leading zero) is recommended for reliability.

Best Practices for Domestic Calls

• Number Verification: Double-check all digits to avoid connection errors.
• Consistent Format: Always use the complete dialing format, even for local calls, to ensure proper routing.
• Record Keeping: Maintain records of authorized numbers for compliance purposes.

How to Call North Korea from Abroad

International calling to North Korea is heavily restricted and requires government authorization. Monitoring of all international communications is standard practice.

Government Authorization Process

Obtaining international calling privileges involves a complex and time-consuming process:

• Government Approval Timeline: Authorization typically takes several weeks to months, depending on the purpose and applicant
• Required Documentation: Applicants must provide detailed justification for international access, proof of official status, and sponsorship from relevant government agencies
• Approval Levels: Different authorization levels exist based on caller status (diplomatic, business, organizational)
• Ongoing Compliance: Authorization is not permanent and requires periodic renewal and review

International Call Costs

International calls to and from North Korea are among the most expensive globally due to limited infrastructure and government control:

• From hotels in Pyongyang: Rates vary dramatically by destination – Vietnam: $0.23/minute, Russia: $1.00/minute, China: $2.16/minute, France: $0.54/minute, Canada/Australia: $5.54/minute
• From international carriers: Most carriers charge $0.50–$2.00 per minute for calls to North Korean numbers
• Sanctions and tariffs: High costs result from international sanctions and North Korean government tariffs
• Payment methods: International calls typically require payment in hard currency (USD, EUR, CNY)

How to Dial North Korea: Step-by-Step

• From the United States: 011 + 850 + [Area Code] + [Subscriber Number]
• From Most Countries: 00 + 850 + [Area Code] + [Subscriber Number]
• Using Plus Format: +850 + [Area Code] + [Subscriber Number]
• Example (Pyongyang): +850 2 123456 or 011 850 2 123456 (from US)
• Important: Omit the leading 0 from the area code when dialing internationally.

Calling North Korea: Outbound Procedures

• Primary Method: 00 + [Country Code] + [Area Code/City Code] + [Local Number] (e.g., 00 86 10 12345678 for Beijing, China)
• Secondary Method (for Congestion): 99 + [Country Code] + [Area Code/City Code] + [Local Number] (requires the same authorization as the primary method)

Receiving International Calls in North Korea

• Direct International Access: Most overseas callers need to go through the international operator service on +850 2 18111. Only select numbers (mostly fax) can be dialed directly without operator assistance.
• International-Capable Numbers: Phone numbers in Pyongyang that can receive international calls always begin with 381 in the local number (e.g., +850 2 381 xxxx). These numbers:
  • Cannot be dialed domestically
  • Cannot make domestic calls
  • Can call other 381 numbers domestically
  • Organizations typically have both a 381 international number and a 382 domestic number
  • Example: British Embassy – +850 2 381 7980 (international) and 02 382 7980 (domestic)

Government Authorization and Call Restrictions

• Government Approval: Mandatory for all international calling privileges.
• Documentation: Justification for international access is required.
• Monitoring: All international calls are subject to recording and review.
• Time Restrictions: International calling may be limited to specific hours.
• Inter-Korean Calls: Calls between North Korea and South Korea are banned, except to or from the Kaesong Industrial Region.

Special Phone Numbers in North Korea

Emergency Services:

Emergency numbers in North Korea are limited and not widely publicized to foreigners. Based on available reports:

• Fire and Emergency: 8119 (reported number, but confirmation limited)
• Police/Security: Numbers vary by region and are typically not accessible to foreigners
• Tourist Facilities: International hotels may have internal emergency numbers; always ask upon arrival
• Foreign Embassies: Tourists should obtain embassy contact numbers before travel

Important: Unlike many countries, North Korea does not have a universal emergency number like 911 or 112. In emergencies, tourists should immediately contact their tour guide, hotel staff, or embassy representative.

Special Service Numbers:

• International Operator: +850 2 18111 – Required for most international calls
• Special Service Numbers: Numbers beginning with 99 are reserved for specific government functions and are not accessible to the general public
• VIP Lines: Separate number ranges exist for high-ranking government officials (specific ranges not publicly disclosed)
• Tourist Lines: Some international hotels and tourist facilities have dedicated numbers, but access remains limited and monitored

North Korea Mobile Networks: Koryolink vs Kangsong NET

Mobile phone usage has increased significantly in recent years, with an estimated 6.5–7 million cellular subscriptions among the country's roughly 24 million people. However, the network is isolated, with no international roaming agreements. North Korea operates two main cellular networks for mobile phone service in the DPRK.

Koryolink: North Korea's First 3G Network

• Ownership: A joint venture between Orascom Telecom Media and Technology Holding (OTMT) and the Korea Post and Telecommunications Corporation (KPTC), with Orascom holding 75% stake
• Launch: December 2008 (country's first 3G network)
• Technology: WCDMA 3G services
• Requirements: Local SIM card required
• Foreign Access: Foreigners can purchase pre-paid SIM cards for international calls (but not domestic calls)
• Mobile Prefixes: 0191, 0192

SIM Card Costs and Purchasing Process for Foreigners:

• Purchase locations: Pyongyang International Airport and Koryolink office at Potonggang Hotel
• Voice-only SIM: Approximately $80–$85 USD for setup and 30-day validity
• Data-enabled SIM: Approximately $200 USD registration fee, plus €400 (≈$532 USD) for 10GB of data package
• Top-up options: Additional credit can be purchased at authorized locations
• Validity: Purchased SIM cards can be reused on repeat visits
• Usage restrictions: International calls only; domestic calls and internet access prohibited for foreigners
• Coverage: Network covers Pyongyang, major cities, and highways connecting urban areas

Kangsong NET: North Korea's 4G LTE Network (2024 Update)

• Ownership: State-owned network operated by the Ministry of Information Industry
• 3G Launch: 2015 (rival 3G network)
• 4G Launch: December 2023 (pilot basis using second-hand Huawei equipment)
• Coverage: By March 2024, 4G signals were detected as far as the inter-Korean border, confirming nationwide expansion
• Technology: WCDMA 3G / 4G LTE
• Mobile Prefix: 0195
• Network Code: 46706 (international mobile network code)
• Benefits: Significantly faster data speeds, enabling new services like video streaming

Mobile Network Status and Restrictions

The vast majority of North Korean cellphone users still use 3G networks, with 4G LTE service expanding but adoption remaining limited.

Network Monitoring and Content Control:

All mobile devices in North Korea employ comprehensive surveillance and control measures:

• Digital signature system: All phones use digital certificates to control access to content and log usage information
• Content restrictions: Software blocks installation of unapproved apps, playing of unsanctioned media files, and access to unapproved eBooks
• Network isolation: No access to the global internet; connectivity restricted to domestic intranet (Kwangmyong)
• No international communication: Phones cannot make or receive international calls or text messages (except foreigners' Koryolink SIM cards)
• Government monitoring: All communications are subject to surveillance, recording, and review
• Consequences: Violations can result in device confiscation, fines, imprisonment, or forced labor, depending on severity

Data Speeds and Connection Quality:

• 3G speeds: Well below international standards, adequate only for basic telephony and slow data access
• 4G LTE speeds: Approximately 10 times faster than 3G, enabling video streaming and faster downloads
• Wi-Fi alternative: Public Wi-Fi network (Mirae) launched in Pyongyang areas offers speeds of at least 33 Mbps, extended to Pyongsong and Nampho
• Network congestion: Peak hours experience significant slowdowns
• Service availability: More reliable in Pyongyang and major cities; rural areas have limited coverage and slower speeds

Cross-Carrier Calling Charges:

North Korea imposes unusual charges for calls between different mobile networks:

• Same carrier calls: Only the caller pays (Koryolink: 12 KPW/min, Kangsong NET: 9 KPW/min)
• Cross-carrier calls: Both caller and receiver pay, with receiver paying 1.5x more (Koryolink receiver: 18 KPW/min, Kangsong receiver: 13.5 KPW/min)
• Video calls: Extremely expensive, charged in USD or CNY; used primarily by business people and officials
• Data recharges: Approximately $14 USD (100 CNY) per gigabyte in most regions

Illegal Cross-Border Phone Use:

Many North Koreans near the Chinese border smuggle mobile phones from China to access Chinese mobile networks. The government has deployed surveillance equipment and handheld signal detectors to crack down on illegal phones. Authorities conduct major crackdowns, particularly in North Hamgyong province, with severe punishments for violators.

Phone Number Validation for North Korea (+850)

For developers building telecommunications applications, proper validation of North Korean phone numbers is essential for data integrity and compliance.

How to Validate North Korean Phone Numbers

• E.164 Format: Implement E.164 format validation for international compatibility
• Number Length Validation:
  • Pyongyang landlines: 8 digits (including area code)
  • Rason landlines: 8 digits (including 3-digit area code)
  • Mobile numbers: 10 digits (including 4-digit prefix)
• Area Code Verification: Validate against official ITU-T registered area codes
• Mobile Prefix Verification: Accept 0191, 0192, 0195 (exclude discontinued 0193)
• International Format: Accept both +850 and 00850 prefixes for international calls

Error Handling and Common Validation Mistakes

Common Validation Errors:

• Leading zero retention: Forgetting to strip the leading 0 when converting to international format (+850)
• Prefix confusion: Accepting discontinued mobile prefix 0193 (SunNet network shut down in 2004)
• Fixed-length assumptions: Not accounting for variable area code lengths (single-digit vs. 3-digit for Rason)
• Special number ranges: Failing to recognize international-capable numbers (381 prefix in Pyongyang)
• Cross-format validation: Not handling both domestic (02 123456) and international (+850 2 123456) formats

Error Handling Best Practices:

• Clear error messages: Specify whether the error is due to invalid format, unrecognized area code, or incorrect length
• Format normalization: Convert all inputs to E.164 format before validation
• Prefix validation: Maintain up-to-date list of valid area codes and mobile prefixes
• Edge case testing: Test with numbers from Rason (3-digit area code), special service numbers (99, 381), and mobile numbers
• Sanitization: Remove spaces, hyphens, and parentheses before validation

Developer Best Practices

• Regulatory Updates: Stay informed about changes in North Korean telecommunications regulations, as they can be frequent and unpredictable.
• Data Accuracy: Information about North Korean phone numbers can be limited and difficult to verify. Rely on reputable sources like ITU-T registrations and exercise caution when working with this data.
• Testing: Due to access restrictions, testing with actual North Korean numbers is extremely difficult. Use format validation and ITU standards as primary verification methods.
• Mock Data Generation: Generate test numbers using valid area codes and mobile prefixes: +850 2 1234567 (Pyongyang), +850 191 1234567 (Koryolink mobile), +850 085 123456 (Rason)
• Sanctions Compliance: Implement screening to flag North Korean numbers and ensure compliance with applicable sanctions before processing

North Korea Sanctions Compliance Requirements

Be aware of and comply with all relevant international sanctions related to North Korea. As of 2024, key compliance considerations include:

U.S. Treasury OFAC Sanctions

• OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) maintains comprehensive sanctions under 31 CFR Part 510 (North Korea Sanctions Regulations)
• Executive Orders 13551, 13570, 13687, 13722, and 13810 remain in effect
• General License 7 (31 CFR § 510.516) permits basic telecommunications and mail transactions
• Software exports and data transmission to blocked persons remain prohibited

Key Compliance Requirements:

• Blocked persons screening: All transactions must be screened against OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List
• Reporting obligations: Blocked transactions must be reported to OFAC within 10 business days
• Annual reporting: Blocked assets must be reported annually by September 30
• Technology restrictions: Providing telecommunications capacity or technology to North Korea requires specific OFAC authorization
• Record keeping: Maintain records of all North Korea-related transactions for at least 5 years

United Nations Sanctions

• Multiple UN Security Council Resolutions (1718, 1874, 2087, 2094, 2270, 2321, 2356, 2371, 2375, 2397) impose restrictions
• Important: In March 2024, Russia vetoed the renewal of the UN Panel of Experts' mandate that had monitored sanctions implementation since 2009

Prohibited Activities and Risk Areas

Prohibited Activities:

• Providing telecommunications equipment or services to blocked North Korean entities or persons
• Facilitating technology transfers that enhance North Korean telecommunications capabilities
• Processing payments for North Korean telecommunications services without proper authorization
• Exporting software or technical data that could be used by sanctioned entities

Permitted Activities (under General License 7):

• Basic telecommunications and mail services between the U.S. and North Korea
• Personal communications (voice calls, emails) for non-commercial purposes
• Humanitarian telecommunications support with proper documentation

DPRK IT Worker Fraud Schemes

A critical sanctions risk involves North Korean IT workers using falsified identities to obtain employment and generate revenue for the regime:

Scheme Overview:

As of July 2025, U.S., UN, and allied sanctions target schemes where DPRK IT workers:

• Use stolen or fraudulent identities to obtain remote employment with U.S. and international companies
• Leverage U.S.-based facilitators (both witting and unwitting) to receive company laptops and provide U.S.-based internet connections
• Install remote access software to work from overseas locations while appearing to be U.S.-based
• Generate substantial revenue for the North Korean regime, violating U.S. and UN sanctions

Red Flags for Employers:

• Applicants requesting device shipment to addresses different from ID documents
• Mismatched or inconsistent identity verification documents
• Requests for payment via cryptocurrency or frequent bank account changes
• Reluctance to appear on video calls or unusual video call behavior
• Employment history that cannot be verified directly with prior employers
• U.S.-based "front businesses" offering short-term technical contract workers

Due Diligence Requirements:

• Mandate in-person meetings, drug tests, or fingerprinting when possible
• Require video calls with unobscured backgrounds and location verification
• Cross-reference photos, contact information, and social media profiles
• Verify employment history directly with previous employers
• Analyze payment methods for matching banking information across employees
• Ship work equipment only to addresses matching identification documents
• Conduct thorough background checks before granting system access
• If using third-party IT contractors, ensure they follow these same practices

Reporting Suspicious Activity:

Companies that suspect DPRK IT worker involvement should immediately contact:

• FBI local Field Office Private Sector Coordinator
• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www.ic3.gov
• FBI tip line: 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324)
• OFAC Compliance Hotline for sanctions guidance

Always verify compliance requirements before engaging in any telecommunications-related activities involving North Korea. Consult with legal counsel specializing in sanctions compliance when uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions About North Korea Phone Numbers

What is the country code for North Korea?

The country code for North Korea is +850, assigned by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) under the E.164 standard. This country calling code is used for all international calls to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

How do I call Pyongyang from the United States?

To call Pyongyang from the US, dial: 011 + 850 + 2 + [7-digit subscriber number]. For example: 011 850 2 123456. The area code for Pyongyang is 2. Remember that 011 is the US exit code for international calls, and 850 is North Korea's country code.

Can foreigners use mobile phones in North Korea?

Foreigners can purchase pre-paid SIM cards from Koryolink for international calls only. Domestic calls are not permitted on foreign SIM cards. The network is isolated with no international roaming agreements.

Does North Korea have 4G mobile service?

Yes, Kangsong NET launched 4G LTE service in December 2023, initially in Pyongyang. By March 2024, 4G signals were detected near the inter-Korean border. However, the vast majority of users still rely on 3G networks.

What numbers can receive international calls in North Korea?

Only specific numbers can receive direct international calls. In Pyongyang, numbers beginning with 381 (e.g., +850 2 381 xxxx) are international-capable. Most other international calls must go through the operator service at +850 2 18111.

Are calls between North Korea and South Korea allowed?

No, calls between North Korea and South Korea are banned, with the exception of calls to or from the Kaesong Industrial Region.

What sanctions apply to North Korea telecommunications?

U.S. sanctions under 31 CFR Part 510 and multiple UN Security Council Resolutions restrict technology transfers and telecommunications services to blocked persons. General License 7 permits basic telecommunications, but software exports and data transmission to blocked entities remain prohibited.

How do I validate North Korean phone numbers in my application?

Validate using E.164 format with country code +850. Verify number lengths: 8 digits for landlines (including area code), 10 digits for mobile numbers (including 4-digit prefix). Check area codes against the official ITU-T registration list.

Additional Resources

• Korea Post and Telecommunications Corporation (KPTC): The state-owned entity responsible for managing North Korea's telecommunications infrastructure.
• Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications: The government ministry overseeing the KPTC and related agencies.
• Ministry of Information Industry: Operates Kangsong NET and other technology initiatives.
• 38 North: Expert analysis and information on North Korea, including telecommunications developments from the Stimson Center.
• North Korea Tech: Dedicated coverage of technology and telecommunications in North Korea.
• OFAC North Korea Sanctions: Official U.S. Treasury guidance on sanctions compliance.
• FBI DPRK IT Worker Threat Advisory: Current guidance on identifying and preventing DPRK IT worker fraud schemes.
• ITU-T E.164 Country Code List: Official international telecommunication numbering resources.

Summary

Understanding North Korea's phone number system requires knowledge of the +850 country code, proper E.164 formatting, and ITU-registered area codes. The telecommunications infrastructure is heavily restricted, with limited international access and strict government monitoring. Two mobile networks operate in the country: Koryolink (3G, foreign-accessible) and Kangsong NET (3G/4G LTE, citizen-only). Developers must implement robust validation systems and ensure compliance with U.S. and UN sanctions when building applications that interact with North Korean telecommunications. Due to the country's isolation and strict controls, information can be limited and subject to change. Always consult with relevant authorities and experts for the most up-to-date information and guidance.