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The North Korean Won: Currency and History

At a Glance

Title: The North Korean Won: Currency and History

Total Categories: 5

Category Stats

  • Currency Identification and Basics: 7 flashcards, 12 questions
  • Historical Development of the Won: 6 flashcards, 7 questions
  • Exchange Rates and Economic Factors: 11 flashcards, 14 questions
  • Banknotes and Coins: Design and Denominations: 14 flashcards, 16 questions
  • Foreign Exchange Controls and Special Currencies: 17 flashcards, 20 questions

Total Stats

  • Total Flashcards: 55
  • True/False Questions: 39
  • Multiple Choice Questions: 30
  • Total Questions: 69

Instructions

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Welcome to Your Curriculum Command Center

This guide will turn you into a Wiki2web Studio power user. Let's unlock the features designed to give you back your weekends.

The Core Concept: What is a "Kit"?

Think of a Kit as your all-in-one digital lesson plan. It's a single, portable file that contains every piece of content for a topic: your subject categories, a central image, all your flashcards, and all your questions. The true power of the Studio is speed—once a kit is made (or you import one), you are just minutes away from printing an entire set of coursework.

Getting Started is Simple:

  • Create New Kit: Start with a clean slate. Perfect for a brand-new lesson idea.
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Step 1: Laying the Foundation (The Authoring Tools)

This is where you build the core knowledge of your Kit. Use the left-side navigation panel to switch between these powerful authoring modules.

⚙️ Kit Manager: Your Kit's Identity

This is the high-level control panel for your project.

  • Kit Name: Give your Kit a clear title. This will appear on all your printed materials.
  • Master Image: Upload a custom cover image for your Kit. This is essential for giving your content a professional visual identity, and it's used as the main graphic when you export your Kit as an interactive game.
  • Topics: Create the structure for your lesson. Add topics like "Chapter 1," "Vocabulary," or "Key Formulas." All flashcards and questions will be organized under these topics.

🃏 Flashcard Author: Building the Knowledge Blocks

Flashcards are the fundamental concepts of your Kit. Create them here to define terms, list facts, or pose simple questions.

  • Click "➕ Add New Flashcard" to open the editor.
  • Fill in the term/question and the definition/answer.
  • Assign the flashcard to one of your pre-defined topics.
  • To edit or remove a flashcard, simply use the ✏️ (Edit) or ❌ (Delete) icons next to any entry in the list.

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Create a bank of questions to test knowledge. These questions are the engine for your worksheets and exams.

  • Click "➕ Add New Question".
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  • The Explanation field is a powerful tool: the text you enter here will automatically appear on the teacher's answer key and on the Smart Study Guide, providing instant feedback.

🔗 Intelligent Mapper: The Smart Connection

This is the secret sauce of the Studio. The Mapper transforms your content from a simple list into an interconnected web of knowledge, automating the creation of amazing study guides.

  • Step 1: Select a question from the list on the left.
  • Step 2: In the right panel, click on every flashcard that contains a concept required to answer that question. They will turn green, indicating a successful link.
  • The Payoff: When you generate a Smart Study Guide, these linked flashcards will automatically appear under each question as "Related Concepts."

Step 2: The Magic (The Generator Suite)

You've built your content. Now, with a few clicks, turn it into a full suite of professional, ready-to-use materials. What used to take hours of formatting and copying-and-pasting can now be done in seconds.

🎓 Smart Study Guide Maker

Instantly create the ultimate review document. It combines your questions, the correct answers, your detailed explanations, and all the "Related Concepts" you linked in the Mapper into one cohesive, printable guide.

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Generate unique assessments every time. The questions and multiple-choice options are randomized automatically. Simply select your topics, choose how many questions you need, and generate:

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Step 3: Saving and Collaborating

  • 💾 Export & Save Kit: This is your primary save function. It downloads the entire Kit (content, images, and all) to your computer as a single .json file. Use this to create permanent backups and share your work with others.
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Study Guide: The North Korean Won: Currency and History

Study Guide: The North Korean Won: Currency and History

Currency Identification and Basics

The official currency of North Korea is known as the Korean People's Won.

Answer: True

The official currency of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is indeed the Korean People's Won, commonly referred to as the North Korean won.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.
  • What is the ISO 4217 code assigned to the North Korean won?: The international standard ISO 4217 code assigned to the North Korean won is KPW. This code is used globally to identify the currency.
  • Into what smaller unit is the North Korean won subdivided?: The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 smaller units called 'chon'. The term 'chon' also derives from Chinese characters (錢) and represents a fraction of the main currency unit.

The ISO 4217 code for the North Korean won is KPW.

Answer: True

The internationally recognized ISO 4217 code assigned to the North Korean won is KPW.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the ISO 4217 code assigned to the North Korean won?: The international standard ISO 4217 code assigned to the North Korean won is KPW. This code is used globally to identify the currency.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.
  • What symbol is used to represent the North Korean won?: The symbol used to represent the North Korean won is \u20a9, which is the standard won sign.

The symbol commonly used to represent the North Korean won is '$'.

Answer: False

The symbol for the North Korean won is \u20a9, not the dollar sign '$'.

Related Concepts:

  • What symbol is used to represent the North Korean won?: The symbol used to represent the North Korean won is \u20a9, which is the standard won sign.
  • Into what smaller unit is the North Korean won subdivided?: The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 smaller units called 'chon'. The term 'chon' also derives from Chinese characters (錢) and represents a fraction of the main currency unit.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.

The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is responsible for issuing the North Korean won.

Answer: True

The issuance and regulation of the North Korean won fall under the purview of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Related Concepts:

  • Which institution is responsible for issuing the North Korean won?: The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is the institution responsible for issuing the North Korean won.
  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.

The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is located in Seoul.

Answer: False

The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is headquartered in Pyongyang, the capital city, not Seoul.

Related Concepts:

  • Where is the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea located?: The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is headquartered in Pyongyang, the capital city of North Korea.

The term 'won' derives its etymology from Chinese characters meaning 'square shape'.

Answer: False

The term 'won' originates from Chinese characters (Hanja 圓) meaning 'round shape,' reflecting the shape of coins, similar to the etymology of the Japanese yen and Chinese yuan.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the etymological origin of the term 'won' used for North Korean currency?: The term 'won' originates from Chinese characters (Hanja 圓) meaning 'round shape,' similar to the etymology of the Japanese yen and Chinese yuan. This signifies a round object, often referring to coins.

The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 units called 'sen'.

Answer: False

The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 units called 'chon', not 'sen'.

Related Concepts:

  • Into what smaller unit is the North Korean won subdivided?: The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 smaller units called 'chon'. The term 'chon' also derives from Chinese characters (錢) and represents a fraction of the main currency unit.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.
  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.

What is the official currency of North Korea?

Answer: Korean People's Won

The official currency of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is the Korean People's Won, commonly known as the North Korean won.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.
  • Which institution is responsible for issuing the North Korean won?: The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is the institution responsible for issuing the North Korean won.
  • Into what smaller unit is the North Korean won subdivided?: The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 smaller units called 'chon'. The term 'chon' also derives from Chinese characters (錢) and represents a fraction of the main currency unit.

Which institution is responsible for issuing the North Korean won?

Answer: The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea

The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is the sole authority responsible for the issuance and management of the North Korean won.

Related Concepts:

  • Which institution is responsible for issuing the North Korean won?: The Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is the institution responsible for issuing the North Korean won.
  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.

What is the ISO 4217 code for the North Korean won?

Answer: KPW

The internationally recognized ISO 4217 code designated for the North Korean won is KPW.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the ISO 4217 code assigned to the North Korean won?: The international standard ISO 4217 code assigned to the North Korean won is KPW. This code is used globally to identify the currency.
  • What symbol is used to represent the North Korean won?: The symbol used to represent the North Korean won is \u20a9, which is the standard won sign.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.

The term 'won' used for North Korean currency shares etymological roots with which other currencies?

Answer: Japanese Yen and Chinese Yuan

The term 'won' shares etymological origins with the Japanese yen and Chinese yuan, all deriving from a Chinese character signifying a 'round shape'.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the etymological origin of the term 'won' used for North Korean currency?: The term 'won' originates from Chinese characters (Hanja 圓) meaning 'round shape,' similar to the etymology of the Japanese yen and Chinese yuan. This signifies a round object, often referring to coins.
  • Into what smaller unit is the North Korean won subdivided?: The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 smaller units called 'chon'. The term 'chon' also derives from Chinese characters (錢) and represents a fraction of the main currency unit.

Into how many smaller units is the North Korean won subdivided?

Answer: 100 units called 'chon'

The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 smaller units known as 'chon'.

Related Concepts:

  • Into what smaller unit is the North Korean won subdivided?: The North Korean won is subdivided into 100 smaller units called 'chon'. The term 'chon' also derives from Chinese characters (錢) and represents a fraction of the main currency unit.
  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.
  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.

Historical Development of the Won

Immediately after Korea's division, North Korea introduced its own currency, the won, without any transitional period.

Answer: False

Following Korea's division, North Korea did not immediately introduce its own currency. It continued to use the Korean yen for a period before issuing the first North Korean won on December 6, 1947.

Related Concepts:

  • How did North Korea manage its currency immediately following the division of Korea?: After the division of Korea, North Korea initially continued to use the Korean yen for a period of two years before introducing its own currency.
  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.

The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947.

Answer: True

The first North Korean won was officially issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Related Concepts:

  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.

The second North Korean won replaced the first at a rate of 10 old won to 1 new won.

Answer: False

The second North Korean won, introduced in 1959, replaced the first at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won, a measure taken to curb inflation.

Related Concepts:

  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.
  • What was the relationship between the first and second North Korean won?: The second North Korean won was introduced in February 1959, replacing the first won at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won.
  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.

The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 via a currency revaluation.

Answer: True

The third iteration of the North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a significant currency revaluation, the first such reform in fifty years.

Related Concepts:

  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.

When was the first North Korean won officially issued?

Answer: December 6, 1947

The first North Korean won was officially issued on December 6, 1947.

Related Concepts:

  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
  • What was the relationship between the first and second North Korean won?: The second North Korean won was introduced in February 1959, replacing the first won at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won.
  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.

What was the exchange rate when the second North Korean won replaced the first?

Answer: 100 old won to 1 new won

The second North Korean won, introduced in 1959, replaced the first at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the relationship between the first and second North Korean won?: The second North Korean won was introduced in February 1959, replacing the first won at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won.
  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.
  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.

The currency revaluation that introduced the third North Korean won occurred in which month and year?

Answer: November 2009

The third North Korean won was introduced through a currency revaluation in November 2009.

Related Concepts:

  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.
  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.

Exchange Rates and Economic Factors

For many years, North Korea maintained an official exchange rate of 2.16 won to the US dollar, reportedly linked to Kim Jong Il's birthday.

Answer: True

From 1978 until around 2001, North Korea maintained a fixed official exchange rate of 2.16 won to the US dollar, a figure widely believed to be connected to Kim Jong Il's birthday on February 16th.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the official exchange rate of the North Korean won to the US dollar for many years, and what was its purported basis?: From 1978, the North Korean government maintained an official exchange rate of 2.16 won to the US dollar. This rate was reportedly linked to Kim Jong Il's birthday, February 16th.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.

Inflation has consistently strengthened the North Korean won's value against major international currencies over the decades.

Answer: False

Rampant inflation has significantly eroded the North Korean won's value over the decades, leading to a substantial depreciation against major international currencies.

Related Concepts:

  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.
  • What significant exchange rate fluctuations occurred for the North Korean won during 2024?: During 2024, the North Korean won initially saw a substantial increase in value against the US dollar, reaching approximately 16,100 KPW per dollar. However, by November 2024, it had fallen to around 18,000 KPW per dollar, indicating a period of hyperinflation.
  • How did the COVID-19 pandemic reportedly influence the valuation of the North Korean won?: The COVID-19 pandemic, by reducing external trade activities, is believed to have led to an appreciation of the North Korean won, with its valuation reportedly rising to around 5,000 KPW per USD in 2021.

By June 2009, the black market exchange rate was approximately 4,000 North Korean won per U.S. dollar.

Answer: True

Reports from June 2009 indicated that the black market exchange rate for the North Korean won against the U.S. dollar had reached approximately 4,000 KPW.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.
  • What was the reported black market exchange rate of the North Korean won against the US dollar in June 2009?: In June 2009, reports from North Korean defectors indicated that the black market exchange rate was approximately 4,000 won per U.S. dollar, with a rate of 570 won to the Chinese yuan also noted.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.

The North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar shortly after the 2009 revaluation.

Answer: True

In the immediate aftermath of the 2009 currency revaluation, the North Korean won underwent a severe devaluation, reportedly losing approximately 96 percent of its value against the U.S. dollar.

Related Concepts:

  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.
  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.

Pak Nam-gi, a government official, was reportedly executed in connection with the 2009 currency reform crisis.

Answer: True

Pak Nam-gi, a high-ranking official involved in financial planning, was reportedly executed in 2010, with his demise linked to the crisis and public discontent stemming from the 2009 currency reform.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the reported fate of Pak Nam-gi in connection with the 2009 currency reform?: Pak Nam-gi, the director of the Planning and Finance Department of North Korea's Workers' Party, was reportedly executed later in 2010, possibly linked to the unrest and crisis caused by the currency reform.

The North Korean won is freely traded on international currency markets.

Answer: False

The North Korean won is not traded on international currency markets; its exchange is primarily confined to unofficial black markets.

Related Concepts:

  • Is the North Korean won freely traded on international currency markets?: No, the North Korean won is not traded on international currency markets. Its exchange is primarily limited to unofficial black markets.
  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.

The COVID-19 pandemic reportedly led to a depreciation of the North Korean won due to reduced trade.

Answer: False

The COVID-19 pandemic, by reducing external trade, reportedly led to an appreciation of the North Korean won due to decreased availability of foreign goods and currency.

Related Concepts:

  • How did the COVID-19 pandemic reportedly influence the valuation of the North Korean won?: The COVID-19 pandemic, by reducing external trade activities, is believed to have led to an appreciation of the North Korean won, with its valuation reportedly rising to around 5,000 KPW per USD in 2021.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.

In 2024, the North Korean won experienced a period of hyperinflation, falling to around 18,000 KPW per dollar by November.

Answer: True

During 2024, the North Korean won experienced significant volatility, including a period of hyperinflation where its value against the U.S. dollar fell to approximately 18,000 KPW per dollar by November.

Related Concepts:

  • What significant exchange rate fluctuations occurred for the North Korean won during 2024?: During 2024, the North Korean won initially saw a substantial increase in value against the US dollar, reaching approximately 16,100 KPW per dollar. However, by November 2024, it had fallen to around 18,000 KPW per dollar, indicating a period of hyperinflation.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • How did the COVID-19 pandemic reportedly influence the valuation of the North Korean won?: The COVID-19 pandemic, by reducing external trade activities, is believed to have led to an appreciation of the North Korean won, with its valuation reportedly rising to around 5,000 KPW per USD in 2021.

For many years, what was the official exchange rate of the North Korean won to the US dollar, and what was its purported basis?

Answer: 2.16 KPW/USD, linked to Kim Jong Il's birthday

From 1978, North Korea maintained an official exchange rate of 2.16 won to the US dollar, reportedly linked to Kim Jong Il's birthday on February 16th.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the official exchange rate of the North Korean won to the US dollar for many years, and what was its purported basis?: From 1978, the North Korean government maintained an official exchange rate of 2.16 won to the US dollar. This rate was reportedly linked to Kim Jong Il's birthday, February 16th.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.

How did inflation generally affect the North Korean won's value over the decades?

Answer: It significantly eroded the won's value.

Over the decades, rampant inflation has significantly eroded the North Korean won's value, leading to substantial depreciation.

Related Concepts:

  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • At what rate was the second North Korean won introduced in 1959, and what was the stated reason for this reform?: The second North Korean won was introduced in 1959 at a rate of 100 old won to 1 new won. This reform aimed to curb inflation that had escalated during the Korean War.

What was a reported black market exchange rate for the North Korean won against the US dollar in June 2009?

Answer: 4,000 KPW per USD

In June 2009, reports indicated that the black market exchange rate for the North Korean won against the U.S. dollar was approximately 4,000 KPW.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the reported black market exchange rate of the North Korean won against the US dollar in June 2009?: In June 2009, reports from North Korean defectors indicated that the black market exchange rate was approximately 4,000 won per U.S. dollar, with a rate of 570 won to the Chinese yuan also noted.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.

Which official was reportedly executed in connection with the crisis caused by the 2009 currency reform?

Answer: Pak Nam-gi

Pak Nam-gi, a high-ranking official involved in financial planning, was reportedly executed in 2010, with his demise linked to the crisis and public discontent stemming from the 2009 currency reform.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the reported fate of Pak Nam-gi in connection with the 2009 currency reform?: Pak Nam-gi, the director of the Planning and Finance Department of North Korea's Workers' Party, was reportedly executed later in 2010, possibly linked to the unrest and crisis caused by the currency reform.

Is the North Korean won freely traded on international currency markets?

Answer: No, its exchange is primarily limited to unofficial black markets.

The North Korean won is not traded on international currency markets; its exchange is primarily confined to unofficial black markets.

Related Concepts:

  • Is the North Korean won freely traded on international currency markets?: No, the North Korean won is not traded on international currency markets. Its exchange is primarily limited to unofficial black markets.
  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.
  • What happened to the acceptance of the North Korean won in some Pyongyang department stores following the 2009 revaluation?: After the 2009 revaluation, some department stores in Pyongyang reportedly ceased accepting the North Korean won, instead exclusively accepting foreign currencies like Japanese yen and US dollars.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic reportedly affect the valuation of the North Korean won?

Answer: It led to an appreciation of the won due to reduced external trade.

The COVID-19 pandemic, by reducing external trade, reportedly led to an appreciation of the North Korean won due to decreased availability of foreign goods and currency.

Related Concepts:

  • How did the COVID-19 pandemic reportedly influence the valuation of the North Korean won?: The COVID-19 pandemic, by reducing external trade activities, is believed to have led to an appreciation of the North Korean won, with its valuation reportedly rising to around 5,000 KPW per USD in 2021.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • How did inflation affect the value of the North Korean won over time?: Over the decades, rampant inflation significantly eroded the North Korean won's value. By 2001, the government began to move away from the fixed official rate towards rates closer to those observed in the black market.

Banknotes and Coins: Design and Denominations

Coins were widely circulated during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959).

Answer: False

No coins were issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959). The first circulation coins were minted in 1959.

Related Concepts:

  • Were any coins issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959)?: No, coins were not issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won.
  • When were the first North Korean coins for circulation minted, and in what denominations?: The first North Korean coins intended for circulation were minted in 1959, in denominations of 1, 5, and 10 chon.
  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

The first North Korean coins intended for circulation were minted in 1959.

Answer: True

The initial series of North Korean coins intended for general circulation were minted in 1959, featuring denominations of 1, 5, and 10 chon.

Related Concepts:

  • When were the first North Korean coins for circulation minted, and in what denominations?: The first North Korean coins intended for circulation were minted in 1959, in denominations of 1, 5, and 10 chon.
  • Were any coins issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959)?: No, coins were not issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.

The 2005 series of North Korean coins included denominations of 1, 5, and 10 won.

Answer: False

The 2005 coin series introduced denominations of 5, 10, 50, and 100 won, not 1 won.

Related Concepts:

  • What denominations were included in the new series of North Korean coins introduced in 2005?: The coin series introduced in 2005 included denominations of 5, 10, 50, and 100 won, characterized by a plain and generic design.
  • When were the first North Korean coins for circulation minted, and in what denominations?: The first North Korean coins intended for circulation were minted in 1959, in denominations of 1, 5, and 10 chon.
  • Were any coins issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959)?: No, coins were not issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won.

The reverse sides of the third won coin series feature images of national leaders.

Answer: False

The reverse sides of the third won coin series feature floral motifs, such as the Kimjongilia and Kimilsungia on the 10 and 50 chon coins, and a magnolia on the 1 won coin, not images of national leaders.

Related Concepts:

  • What imagery is featured on the reverse sides of the third won coin series issued in 2002 and 2008?: The reverse sides of the third won coins feature flowers: the Kimjongilia and Kimilsungia on the 10 and 50 chon coins, and a magnolia on the 1 won coin.

Most North Korean circulation coins are made primarily of aluminum.

Answer: True

The majority of North Korean circulation coins are manufactured using aluminum.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary metallic composition of most North Korean circulation coins?: Most North Korean circulation coins are struck from aluminum.
  • When were the first North Korean coins for circulation minted, and in what denominations?: The first North Korean coins intended for circulation were minted in 1959, in denominations of 1, 5, and 10 chon.

The 1947 North Korean banknote issue included denominations of 15, 20, and 50 chon.

Answer: True

The initial banknote issue of the North Korean won in 1947 included smaller denominations of 15, 20, and 50 chon, alongside larger won denominations.

Related Concepts:

  • What denominations were part of the initial 1947 North Korean banknote issue?: The 1947 banknote issue included denominations of 15, 20, and 50 chon, as well as 1, 5, 10, and 100 won.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.
  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Kim Il Sung first appeared on North Korean banknotes in the 1992 redesigned series.

Answer: False

Kim Il Sung first appeared on North Korean banknotes in the 1979 issue, specifically on the 100 won note, not in the 1992 series.

Related Concepts:

  • When did Kim Il Sung first appear on North Korean banknotes, and on which denomination was he featured?: Kim Il Sung was first featured on North Korean banknotes in the 1979 issue, specifically appearing on the 100 won note.
  • What imagery is featured on the current series of North Korean banknotes, particularly the highest denomination?: Kim Il Sung is depicted on the obverse of the highest denomination banknote (5,000 won). Other notes in the current series feature the Magnolia (the national flower), depictions of North Koreans in various professions, and significant national monuments.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.

The 1992 banknote series featured larger, more ornate notes compared to previous issues.

Answer: False

The 1992 banknote series introduced smaller, crisper notes with more modern themes, contrasting with earlier, often larger and more ornate designs.

Related Concepts:

  • What design changes were observed in the North Korean banknote series redesigned in 1992?: The 1992 banknote series featured smaller and crisper notes compared to previous issues, and they depicted more modern themes.

The current highest denomination North Korean banknote features Kim Il Sung on the obverse.

Answer: True

Kim Il Sung is depicted on the obverse side of the current highest denomination North Korean banknote, the 5,000 won note.

Related Concepts:

  • What imagery is featured on the current series of North Korean banknotes, particularly the highest denomination?: Kim Il Sung is depicted on the obverse of the highest denomination banknote (5,000 won). Other notes in the current series feature the Magnolia (the national flower), depictions of North Koreans in various professions, and significant national monuments.
  • When did Kim Il Sung first appear on North Korean banknotes, and on which denomination was he featured?: Kim Il Sung was first featured on North Korean banknotes in the 1979 issue, specifically appearing on the 100 won note.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.

Were coins issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959)?

Answer: No, coins were not issued for circulation during that time.

No coins were issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959). The first circulation coins were minted in 1959.

Related Concepts:

  • Were any coins issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won (1947-1959)?: No, coins were not issued for circulation during the period of the first North Korean won.
  • When were the first North Korean coins for circulation minted, and in what denominations?: The first North Korean coins intended for circulation were minted in 1959, in denominations of 1, 5, and 10 chon.
  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

What imagery is featured on the reverse sides of the third won coin series issued in 2002 and 2008?

Answer: Various flowers like Kimjongilia and Magnolia

The reverse sides of the third won coin series feature floral motifs, such as the Kimjongilia and Kimilsungia on the 10 and 50 chon coins, and a magnolia on the 1 won coin.

Related Concepts:

  • What imagery is featured on the reverse sides of the third won coin series issued in 2002 and 2008?: The reverse sides of the third won coins feature flowers: the Kimjongilia and Kimilsungia on the 10 and 50 chon coins, and a magnolia on the 1 won coin.

What is the primary metallic composition of most North Korean circulation coins?

Answer: Aluminum

The majority of North Korean circulation coins are manufactured using aluminum.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the primary metallic composition of most North Korean circulation coins?: Most North Korean circulation coins are struck from aluminum.

What denominations were part of the initial 1947 North Korean banknote issue?

Answer: 15, 20, and 50 chon notes, along with larger won denominations.

The initial banknote issue of the North Korean won in 1947 included smaller denominations of 15, 20, and 50 chon, alongside larger won denominations.

Related Concepts:

  • What denominations were part of the initial 1947 North Korean banknote issue?: The 1947 banknote issue included denominations of 15, 20, and 50 chon, as well as 1, 5, 10, and 100 won.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.
  • When was the first North Korean won officially issued?: The first North Korean won was issued on December 6, 1947, coinciding with the establishment of the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

When did Kim Il Sung first appear on North Korean banknotes?

Answer: 1979

Kim Il Sung first appeared on North Korean banknotes in the 1979 issue, specifically on the 100 won note.

Related Concepts:

  • When did Kim Il Sung first appear on North Korean banknotes, and on which denomination was he featured?: Kim Il Sung was first featured on North Korean banknotes in the 1979 issue, specifically appearing on the 100 won note.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.
  • What imagery is featured on the current series of North Korean banknotes, particularly the highest denomination?: Kim Il Sung is depicted on the obverse of the highest denomination banknote (5,000 won). Other notes in the current series feature the Magnolia (the national flower), depictions of North Koreans in various professions, and significant national monuments.

What characterized the North Korean banknote series redesigned in 1992?

Answer: Smaller, crisper notes with more modern themes.

The 1992 banknote series introduced smaller, crisper notes with more modern themes, contrasting with earlier, often larger and more ornate designs.

Related Concepts:

  • What design changes were observed in the North Korean banknote series redesigned in 1992?: The 1992 banknote series featured smaller and crisper notes compared to previous issues, and they depicted more modern themes.
  • When were the first banknotes issued by the provisional government in North Korea?: The first banknotes associated with North Korea were issued in 1945 by the Soviet-backed provisional government.
  • What themes were represented on the second North Korean won banknote series issued in 1959?: The 1959 banknote series depicted various industries within the North Korean economy, showcasing the nation's industrial development.

What specific landmarks are depicted on the 5,000 won note released in 2014?

Answer: Kim Il Sung's birthplace at Mangyondae and the International Friendship Exhibition

The 5,000 won note released in 2014 features Kim Il Sung's birthplace at Mangyondae on the obverse and the International Friendship Exhibition on the reverse.

Related Concepts:

  • What specific landmarks are depicted on the 5,000 won note released in 2014?: The 5,000 won note released in 2014 features Kim Il Sung's birthplace at Mangyondae on the obverse and the International Friendship Exhibition on the reverse.

Foreign Exchange Controls and Special Currencies

During the 2009 currency revaluation, North Koreans could exchange up to 1 million old won for new notes.

Answer: False

The initial exchange limit for North Koreans during the 2009 revaluation was 100,000 old won, later increased to 150,000 won, not 1 million.

Related Concepts:

  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.
  • What were the initial exchange limits imposed during the 2009 currency revaluation, and what was their impact on citizens?: Initially, North Koreans could only exchange a maximum of 100,000 old won for new notes within a seven-day period. This limit significantly impacted citizens by effectively wiping out many personal savings.

The 2009 currency revaluation was primarily intended to strengthen the national currency's value against major foreign currencies.

Answer: False

The primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 revaluation was to curb domestic price inflation and reduce the influence of the black market economy, rather than solely to strengthen the currency against foreign ones.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.

The announcement of the 2009 currency reform was widely published in North Korean state media immediately upon its implementation.

Answer: False

The announcement of the 2009 currency reform was initially made to foreign embassies but was not immediately published in North Korean state media, leading to widespread confusion and panic.

Related Concepts:

  • How was the announcement of the 2009 currency reform communicated, and what was the initial reaction in North Korean state media?: The announcement of the currency reform was made to foreign embassies but was not initially published in North Korean state media, leading to confusion and panic among the populace.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.

During the week-long currency exchange blackout in late 2009, most shops and services ceased operations.

Answer: True

During the week-long period in late 2009 when old currency was invalid and new currency had not yet been fully distributed, most shops and services ceased operations as transactions became impossible.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the impact on daily life in North Korea during the week between the cessation of old currency and the distribution of new notes in late 2009?: During the week between November 30 and December 7, 2009, when old notes were invalid and new ones were not yet distributed, most shops, restaurants, and transport services were shut down as people could not conduct transactions.
  • What services remained operational during the currency exchange blackout period in late 2009?: Only services catering to the political elite and foreigners remained open, as they continued to use foreign currencies for transactions.

Only services catering to the general populace remained open during the 2009 currency exchange blackout period.

Answer: False

During the 2009 currency exchange blackout, services catering to the political elite and foreigners generally remained operational, as they could still utilize foreign currencies.

Related Concepts:

  • What services remained operational during the currency exchange blackout period in late 2009?: Only services catering to the political elite and foreigners remained open, as they continued to use foreign currencies for transactions.
  • What was the impact on daily life in North Korea during the week between the cessation of old currency and the distribution of new notes in late 2009?: During the week between November 30 and December 7, 2009, when old notes were invalid and new ones were not yet distributed, most shops, restaurants, and transport services were shut down as people could not conduct transactions.

Before 2009, North Korea used 'red won' and 'blue won' as separate foreign exchange certificates for visitors from socialist and capitalist countries, respectively.

Answer: True

Prior to 2009, North Korea issued distinct foreign exchange certificates, known as 'red won' and 'blue won,' intended for visitors from socialist and capitalist countries, respectively, as a means of managing foreign currency usage.

Related Concepts:

  • What were the 'red won' and 'blue won' in the context of North Korean currency before 2009?: Before 2009, North Korea issued separate foreign exchange certificates for visitors: 'red won' for those from socialist countries and 'blue won' for those from capitalist countries, to manage foreign currency usage.
  • What was the purpose of issuing separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors in North Korea prior to 2009?: Before 2009, North Korea, like other socialist states, issued separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors. This was intended to protect the value of the national currency within its command economy and manage foreign exchange.
  • When was the third North Korean won introduced, and what significant event marked this change?: The third North Korean won was introduced in November 2009 through a currency revaluation, marking the first such reform in fifty years.

Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) were officially abolished in North Korea in 2009.

Answer: False

Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) were officially abolished in North Korea in 2002, not 2009.

Related Concepts:

  • When were Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) officially abolished in North Korea?: Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) were officially abolished in North Korea in 2002.
  • What was the purpose of issuing separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors in North Korea prior to 2009?: Before 2009, North Korea, like other socialist states, issued separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors. This was intended to protect the value of the national currency within its command economy and manage foreign exchange.
  • What were the 'red won' and 'blue won' in the context of North Korean currency before 2009?: Before 2009, North Korea issued separate foreign exchange certificates for visitors: 'red won' for those from socialist countries and 'blue won' for those from capitalist countries, to manage foreign currency usage.

The 'donpyo' currency, issued in late 2021, consists of regular banknotes printed with standard ink.

Answer: False

The 'donpyo' is an emergency currency or money coupon issued due to shortages of ink and paper needed for printing regular North Korean won banknotes, not regular banknotes printed with standard ink.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the 'donpyo' currency, and why was it issued?: The 'donpyo' is an emergency currency, essentially a money coupon, issued in late 2021 due to shortages of ink and paper needed for printing regular North Korean won banknotes, exacerbated by COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.

'Pakkundon,' meaning 'exchangeable money,' were special foreign exchange certificates issued by North Korea.

Answer: True

'Pakkundon,' translating to 'exchangeable money,' were indeed special foreign exchange certificates issued by North Korea, distinguished by unique markings.

Related Concepts:

  • What were the 'Pakkundon,' and how were they distinguished?: 'Pakkundon,' meaning 'exchangeable money,' were special foreign exchange certificates issued by North Korea. They were distinguished by unique overstamps and serial number colors, indicating whether they were intended for socialist or capitalist visitors.
  • What was the purpose of issuing separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors in North Korea prior to 2009?: Before 2009, North Korea, like other socialist states, issued separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors. This was intended to protect the value of the national currency within its command economy and manage foreign exchange.

Following the 2009 revaluation, some Pyongyang department stores began exclusively accepting the North Korean won.

Answer: False

Following the 2009 revaluation, some Pyongyang department stores reportedly ceased accepting the North Korean won, exclusively accepting foreign currencies instead.

Related Concepts:

  • What happened to the acceptance of the North Korean won in some Pyongyang department stores following the 2009 revaluation?: After the 2009 revaluation, some department stores in Pyongyang reportedly ceased accepting the North Korean won, instead exclusively accepting foreign currencies like Japanese yen and US dollars.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.
  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.

The 'tied' won is used for pricing goods in ordinary shops and markets accessible to the general public.

Answer: False

The 'tied' won is an accounting unit for transactions involving foreign currency, often via special debit cards, and is not used in ordinary shops and markets accessible to the general public.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the 'tied' won, and how is it utilized in North Korea?: The 'tied' won is an accounting unit used for transactions involving foreign exchange. Foreign visitors and privileged locals can use a special debit card, credited by exchanging foreign currency at the official bank rate, to purchase goods priced in 'tied' won.
  • What is the 'untied' won, and in which types of establishments is it used?: The 'untied' won, represented by regular North Korean won banknotes, is used for pricing goods in ordinary shops and markets, as opposed to the restricted state-run or 'tied' won shops.

What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?

Answer: To curb price inflation and reduce the black market economy.

The 2009 currency revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb domestic price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.

How was the announcement of the 2009 currency reform communicated, and what was the initial reaction in North Korean state media?

Answer: It was not initially published in North Korean state media.

The announcement of the 2009 currency reform was initially made to foreign embassies but was not immediately published in North Korean state media, leading to confusion and panic among the populace.

Related Concepts:

  • How was the announcement of the 2009 currency reform communicated, and what was the initial reaction in North Korean state media?: The announcement of the currency reform was made to foreign embassies but was not initially published in North Korean state media, leading to confusion and panic among the populace.

During the week-long currency exchange blackout in late 2009, what types of services generally remained operational?

Answer: Services catering to the political elite and foreigners.

During the 2009 currency exchange blackout, services catering to the political elite and foreigners generally remained operational, as they could still utilize foreign currencies.

Related Concepts:

  • What services remained operational during the currency exchange blackout period in late 2009?: Only services catering to the political elite and foreigners remained open, as they continued to use foreign currencies for transactions.

What were the 'red won' and 'blue won' before 2009?

Answer: Foreign exchange certificates for visitors from socialist and capitalist countries, respectively.

Before 2009, North Korea issued distinct foreign exchange certificates, known as 'red won' and 'blue won,' intended for visitors from socialist and capitalist countries, respectively, as a means of managing foreign currency usage.

Related Concepts:

  • What were the 'red won' and 'blue won' in the context of North Korean currency before 2009?: Before 2009, North Korea issued separate foreign exchange certificates for visitors: 'red won' for those from socialist countries and 'blue won' for those from capitalist countries, to manage foreign currency usage.

Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) were officially abolished in North Korea in which year?

Answer: 2002

Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) were officially abolished in North Korea in 2002.

Related Concepts:

  • When were Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) officially abolished in North Korea?: Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) were officially abolished in North Korea in 2002.
  • What was the purpose of issuing separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors in North Korea prior to 2009?: Before 2009, North Korea, like other socialist states, issued separate currencies or foreign exchange certificates for visitors. This was intended to protect the value of the national currency within its command economy and manage foreign exchange.

What is the 'donpyo' currency?

Answer: An emergency currency or money coupon issued due to shortages of printing materials.

The 'donpyo' is an emergency currency, essentially a money coupon, issued in late 2021 due to shortages of ink and paper needed for printing regular North Korean won banknotes.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the 'donpyo' currency, and why was it issued?: The 'donpyo' is an emergency currency, essentially a money coupon, issued in late 2021 due to shortages of ink and paper needed for printing regular North Korean won banknotes, exacerbated by COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.
  • What denominations and colors are the 'donpyo' coupons?: The 'donpyo' coupons are issued in denominations of 5,000 won, printed in red ink, and 50,000 won, printed in green ink.

What were the 'Pakkundon'?

Answer: Special foreign exchange certificates distinguished by unique markings.

'Pakkundon,' translating to 'exchangeable money,' were special foreign exchange certificates issued by North Korea, distinguished by unique markings.

Related Concepts:

  • What were the 'Pakkundon,' and how were they distinguished?: 'Pakkundon,' meaning 'exchangeable money,' were special foreign exchange certificates issued by North Korea. They were distinguished by unique overstamps and serial number colors, indicating whether they were intended for socialist or capitalist visitors.

Following the 2009 revaluation, what change was observed in some Pyongyang department stores regarding currency acceptance?

Answer: They ceased accepting the North Korean won, accepting only foreign currencies.

Following the 2009 revaluation, some department stores in Pyongyang reportedly ceased accepting the North Korean won, exclusively accepting foreign currencies instead.

Related Concepts:

  • What happened to the acceptance of the North Korean won in some Pyongyang department stores following the 2009 revaluation?: After the 2009 revaluation, some department stores in Pyongyang reportedly ceased accepting the North Korean won, instead exclusively accepting foreign currencies like Japanese yen and US dollars.
  • What was the primary suspected motivation behind the 2009 currency revaluation?: The 2009 revaluation is widely believed to have been an attempt by the North Korean government to curb price inflation and diminish the influence of the burgeoning black market economy.
  • How did the value of the North Korean won change against the US dollar in the days immediately following the 2009 revaluation?: In the days after the 2009 revaluation, the North Korean won experienced a significant devaluation, plummeting by approximately 96 percent against the U.S. dollar.

What is the 'tied' won used for in North Korea?

Answer: An accounting unit for transactions involving foreign currency, often via special debit cards.

The 'tied' won is an accounting unit used for transactions involving foreign exchange, often facilitated through special debit cards credited by exchanging foreign currency at the official bank rate.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the 'untied' won, and in which types of establishments is it used?: The 'untied' won, represented by regular North Korean won banknotes, is used for pricing goods in ordinary shops and markets, as opposed to the restricted state-run or 'tied' won shops.
  • What is the 'tied' won, and how is it utilized in North Korea?: The 'tied' won is an accounting unit used for transactions involving foreign exchange. Foreign visitors and privileged locals can use a special debit card, credited by exchanging foreign currency at the official bank rate, to purchase goods priced in 'tied' won.
  • What is the official currency of North Korea?: The official currency of North Korea is the Korean People's won, more commonly known as the North Korean won. It is the sole legal tender within the country.

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