North Koreans shun paid Rodong Sinmun app but still pay for the paper edition
North Korea’s flagship newspaper can now be read through a paid Rodong Sinmun app on smartphones in 2026. According to a source in South Hamgyong province, however, few North Koreans are willing to pay for it. Some people still pay to receive the printed edition, largely because they need the paper itself for everyday household […]
In 2026, North Korea's official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, can now be accessed through a paid app on smartphones. However, according to a source in South Hamgyong province, few North Koreans are willing to pay for the app. Some still opt for the printed edition due to practical needs, such as using the paper for household purposes.
The app offers two subscription tiers, with first-tier access costing 500 North Korean won per month and second-tier access costing four times as much. The primary barrier for users is the subscription fee. Those who pay for the print edition often find more practical value in the paper, using it for tasks like rolling cigarettes, basic wallpaper, or toilet paper.
Written by urgent.news from Daily NK's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
