9 Jan 2024

Dave Kulesza: Exploring the lesser-known North Korea

From Summer Times, 11:10 am on 9 January 2024
Architect photographer Dave Kulesza (right) and one of his guides in North Korea.

Architect photographer Dave Kulesza (right) and one of his guides in North Korea. Photo: Dave Kulesza

North Korea typically conjures ideas about the dark side of communism, a dictatorship and repressed citizens living in crumbling concrete high-rises.

But, those who know better, understand the architecture, at least, is the exact antithesis of that.

Dave Kulesza, an architect photographer based in Melbourne, spent a whirlwind three days capturing the beautiful pastel palettes and instantly iconic spaces in the capital of Pyongyang.

His series, 'North Korea in Colour', is one you have to see to believe. 

North Korea in Colour: Changgwang Pool #2

North Korea in Colour: Changgwang Pool #2 Photo: Dave Kulesza