10 North Korean cellphone brands that are hidden from the world
Local Cell Phone Brands Used in North Korea
In North Korea, there are various local cellphone brands used by local people. Even though they have names that are quite foreign to the outside world, these brands have an important role in the daily lives of the country’s citizens. Some of them even have designs and features similar to cellphones from other countries, even though they are produced specifically for the domestic market.
Cell Phone Production in North Korea
Even though most North Korean cellphones are locally branded, in fact almost all of their products are produced in China. Once manufactured, these phones are then labeled with North Korean brands and sold domestically. This production process was carried out because supporting facilities in North Korea were still limited. In addition, the Android operating system used is also modified with strict feature and security restrictions.
List of Mobile Phone Brands in North Korea
The following are several brands of cellphones used by North Korean people:
Arirang
Arirang is one of the well-known cellphone brands in North Korea. Arirang IT Company has its headquarters in Pyongyang and has cellphone production facilities. However, it is believed that the assembly process is carried out in China. Several cellphone models released include the Arirang 1201, Arirang 191, and Arirang 221.Madusan and Chongsong
Both brands are managed by the Madusan Economic Federation, a North Korean business conglomerate. One of the cellphone models released was the Madusan 222, which was later renamed the Chongsong 222.Pyongyang
Pyongan is a popular cellphone brand in North Korea. The phone was developed by Checom Technology, which was founded in 2003 in collaboration with a Chinese company. Although information about the brand is quite minimal, the company logo is visible in retail stores nationwide.Phurunhanal
Phurunhanal Electronics produces various electronic devices, including mobile phones. One of the cellphone models released was the Phurunhanal H1, which was launched in 2018.Samthaesong
Samthaesong is a cellphone brand developed by Jonsung Economy & Technology Exchange. This cellphone was first introduced in 2019 and experienced a decline in popularity during the pandemic.Chollyong
Chollyong is one of the cellphone brands produced by Cutgang New Technology Development Center. Information about the brand is very limited, but the Chollyong 201 is one of the models released.Your Kiltong
Although there is not much information regarding this brand, Kiltongmu is known as a South Korean cellphone brand produced by Kwangja Trading.Sonamu
Sonamu is marketed by Puksae Electronic Trading Company. One of the models released is the Sonamu 382, which will launch sometime in 2023.Jindallae
Jindallae is a cellphone brand produced by Mangyongdae IT. In 2023, the company launched 13 smartphones and 10 feature phones, such as Jindallae 4, Jindallae 6, and Jindallae 6B.Myohang
Myohang is a cellphone brand produced by Pyongje, a North Korean electronics company. Apart from cellphones, this company also develops tablets under the same brand.
Conclusion
Mobile phone brands in North Korea reflect the government’s policy of controlling access to technology and information. Even though some models have similarities to foreign phones, the use of local brands remains part of the country’s identity. With strict restrictions, these cellphones have become the main means of communication for North Koreans.
