Asia
Pyongyang
North Korea
Quick Answer
Only drink bottled water.
Concerned About Water in Pyongyang?
A reliable water filter is yes (strongly recommended) for this destination.
🛒Get a Travel Water Filter on Amazon→Detailed Guidance
Tap water is unsafe due to contamination. Strictly use bottled water for all consumption.
Tap Water Usage Guide
Brush Teeth
Use bottled water
Ice Cubes
Avoid
Wash Fruit
Peel or wash with bottled water
Shower
Yes
Restaurants
Typically no (bottled is standard)
Locals Drink
Mixed (many filter/boil)
Water Quality Score
Water Quality
Poor
Water Source
Pyongyang's municipal supply is primarily drawn from the Taedong River and nearby reservoirs and processed at local treatment plants, but aging infrastructure, intermittent treatment, and occasional contamination issues can compromise water quality. Treatment exists but distribution and pipe condition are unreliable in parts of the city.
Travel Safety Information
Pickpocket Risk
Low
Night Safety
Mostly safe
Scam Risk
Low
English Level
Low
Best Time to Visit
May to September
🛒 Don't Forget Your Travel Essential
A water filter is yes (strongly recommended) for Pyongyang. Stay safe and hydrated.
View on Amazon→Other Cities in North Korea
Nampo
North Korea
Do not drink tap water in Nampo; use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth and avoid ice or unwashed produce unless cleaned with bottled/boiled water.
Hamhung
North Korea
Do not drink tap water in Hamhung; use sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth, avoid ice, and wash or peel produce only using bottled water.
Ch'ongjin
North Korea
Tap water is unsafe due to contamination. Strictly use bottled water for all consumption.
Sunch'on
North Korea
Tap water is unsafe due to contamination. Strictly use bottled water for all consumption.