Made in North Korea

Made in North Korea – Graphics From Everyday Life in the DPRK

North Korea uncensored and unfiltered

It uncovers the fascinating and surprisingly beautiful graphic culture of North Korea – from packaging to hotel brochures, luggage tags to tickets for the world-famous mass games; Bonner’s extensive collection of North Korean graphic design are a result of his decades of engagement with the country. The collection was published by Phaidon, including eight short essays written by Koryo General Manager Simon Cockerell.

Made in North Korea Book Cover

Phaidon
2017

Made in North Korea Book Sample

Our Story

When Bonner started visiting North Korea, his eye was caught by the strikingly attractive graphic designs which adorned everything from the intricately decorated sugar sachets presented alongside a coffee on an Air Koryo flight, to the cheerfully painted rows of pink peaches livening up an otherwise plain tin of fruit. Bonner started collecting these snatches of frivolity, which represent a surprising contrast to a country known for its brutalist buildings and intimidating military propaganda.

After decades of visiting the country and gathering these examples, Bonner had amassed the most comprehensive collection of this little known anomaly in graphic design history. Partnering with Phaidon ensured this collection would reach a wider audience.

Made in North Korea Book Sample
Firstly. Secondly. However, it did. In conclusion. Moreover. However. In conclusion. Similarly. Therefore. In other words. For instance. In addition.

An extraordinary and rare insight into North Korea’s state-controlled graphic output, and the lives of ordinary North Koreans.

Waterstones Bookstore

Available on Phaidon store.

Other Publications

DPRKorea
D.P.R. KOREA: THE GRAND TOUR Carl De Keyzer on a 40 night tour to every single one of North Korea’s
Art of the DPRK Book Cover
Limited edition book on the world's first exhibition dedicated to North Korean film posters
Welcome to Pyongyang book cover
The first art photography book on North Korea by a western photographer
Model City
The architecture and urban space of Pyongyang, a city conceived as a model for the entire state and for a