The United Nations World Food Program says more than 80 per cent of North Korean households struggle to eat adequately, with many reducing portions or adding water to make supplies last between May to August.
But Western tourists are given an altogether different view of the nation when they are taken on a guided and tightly scripted tour of the capital Pyongyang.
At the new Munso water park, Western tourists are treated to the sight of families happily splashing around the park's rides.
There is also a brand new equestrian centre where visitors are allowed to ride the horses if they pay $10 an hour.
That amount is hardly covered by a weekly wage in the country.
In the newly refurbished war museum, visitors see a graphic photo of a dead American soldier. The guide says the photo "shows that anybody who violates the sovereignty and intruded into our country to conduct espiionage must be killed like that".
Outside the Juche Tower, a guide says people follow the religion of Juche by choice.
"We choose Juche as part of our faith," she told CNN.
Study of the religion that worships Kim Il Sung is conducted at the Grand People's Study House, where 30 million volumes are said to be contained.
The UN released a report in February, saying evidence gathered over one year showed "systematic and gross human rights violations". The report detailed evidence of torture, execution, deliberate starvation and little freedom for religion.
But that has not stopped the North Korean government in its drive to boost the domestic tourism industry. The Pyongyang Times reports surfing tours are being offered in a bid to lure tourists.
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