It might sound wild, but North Korea and Egypt share an unexpected link.
The story kicks off with Koryolink – North Korea’s main mobile operator and the first to roll out a 3G network. What’s even more surprising is that Koryolink is a joint venture between North Korea’s state telecom and Egypt’s Orascom, the same company once involved with the notorious Ryugyong Hotel.
The Ryugyong Hotel is a legendary structure. Conceived in the late 1980s as a monument to modernity, construction of the giant pyramid was abandoned, leaving it unfinished and dominating Pyongyang’s skyline. Its potential was overshadowed for years by its eerie presence. Fast-forward to nearly a decade later, an Egyptian company called Osracom swooped in with an audacious plan: they’d launch a 3G project in Pyongyang – and in exchange, the North Korean leadership agreed to let them fix up the hotel’s exterior.
Osracom’s agreement was both straightforward and impressive. They would install a modern network that would eventually become known as Koryolink, while also transforming the hotel’s grim façade by adding windows. The project’s 2012 completion, timed to coincide with Kim Il Sung’s 100th birthday, replaced a long-standing urban eyesore with a more respectable landmark.
This remarkable partnership reveals a fascinating juxtaposition: the business acumen involved and the contrasting realities of Egypt and North Korea. Egypt’s competitive, budget-friendly telecom market contrasts sharply with North Korea’s state-controlled environment. Meanwhile, culturally, Egypt dazzles with its ancient history and lively modern vibe, while North Korea remains shrouded in mystery and strict state control.
At unusual voyages, we’re all about exploring these fascinating connections. Our tours offer the chance to experience the buzz of Egypt’s streets alongside the enigma of North Korea, with insights into everything from telecom pricing to architectural transformations. If you’re curious about how a revamped cellphone network and a transformed hotel can symbolise the unexpected ties between two very different countries, join us for an adventure that challenges your views of the world.
Where will you be making your next call?
NORTH KOREA: Victoy Day Tour
7 to 20 September 2025
unusualvoyages.com/tour/dprk-09-2025
EGYPT & NUBIA 15 to 24 February 2026 unusualvoyages.com/tour/egypt-02-2026
