{
  "id": 10507393,
  "title": "Poor road conditions leave North Korean drivers paying for constant tire repairs",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/poor-road-conditions-leave-north-korean-drivers-paying-for-constant",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-28T17:54:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily NK",
    "slug": "daily-nk",
    "url": "https://www.dailynk.com/english/north-korea-poor-road-conditions-tire-costs-north-hamgyong/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Poor road conditions in North Korea's North Hamgyong province are causing significant financial strain for drivers, who are forced to repeatedly repair and replace their tires, according to a source shared with Daily NK. The province's roads are plagued by cracked asphalt, deep potholes, and unpaved stretches, causing tires to wear out within months of purchase. Many drivers in Hoeryong and Chongjin are frustrated by the frequent flat tires, as even new tires often need repairs within a year. The issue stems from the state's inadequate maintenance of roads, with local authorities often mobilizing ordinary citizens and state employees for repairs, which comes with additional costs. Despite these efforts, the repairs appear to be temporary, as the roads quickly deteriorate again. The constant tire damage has created a cycle where drivers spend money on repairs and replacements, leading to higher fares for passengers and increased demand for repair services. This situation highlights the severe impact of poor road conditions on North Korea's drivers, who see their earnings diminish due to the recurring expenses.",
  "summary": "Poor road conditions across North Korea’s North Hamgyong province are driving up tire costs for drivers in 2026. Cracked asphalt, deep potholes and long unpaved stretches are wearing out tires within months of purchase. Many drivers now find themselves stuck in a costly cycle of repairs and replacements that eats into their earnings. Drivers who […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": "https://urgent.news/ill/10507393.png",
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 3,
    "also_reported_by": [
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        "title": "South Korea demands an apology from Ukraine for disclosing the secret transfer of two North Korean prisoners",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/south-korea-demands-an-apology-from-ukraine-for-disclosing-the-secret",
        "published": "2026-09-28T15:51:54.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
        "title": "Manhyia South constituents demand apology from EOCO over attempt to ‘unlawfully’ arrest MP",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/manhyia-south-constituents-demand-apology-from-eoco-over-attempt-to",
        "published": "2026-09-28T17:52:38.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}