Strategic Ecosystems

Productive Pyongyang



The specimens and systems of Pyongyang’s urban morphology are analysed to produce policy-shaping recommendations for its economic and built future.

There has been a significant level of urban and infrastructure development in the DPRK over the past six years. This includes the construction of new streets in Pyongyang to new thematic zones in other parts of the country – Tourism Zone in Wonsan, Research Zone in Unjong Park, Gateway City in Sinuiju, etc. In addition to new construction, there has been a significant amount of urban regeneration, including the rehabilitation of Taedong River. Apart from physical development, the planning departments are drafting a city-wide sustainable and regeneration plan.
Through on-the-ground interactions, this urban economic research was carried out to track Pyongyang’s urban transformation over the past few years in a data-driven and quantitative way. It aims to establish an understanding of the socio-economic value of these developments, and the correlation between space and business activities. More importantly, this research aims to assist policy planners and potential foreign investors to understand the key projects to develop for Pyongyang in future.

The research comprises three parts: Local interactions through a Choson Exchange training program, a digital Pyongyang Map, cartographic mapping and data simulation, and questionnaire interviews with local stakeholders. Results of the research were shared with policy makers in Seoul and Pyongyang.

Year 2018 Location Pyongyang, DPRK Client Choson Exchange Status Completed