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A Taste of the East: North Korean Restaurants in China
In recent days, an intriguing development has emerged regarding North Korean eateries in China. Many of these establishments, once bustling with activity, are now closing their doors due to economic challenges. The closure of these restaurants is particularly noticeable in Liaoning province.
The Decline of North Korean Restaurants
This year, a marked shift occurred in the city of Dandong. Here, seven out of approximately ten North Korean dining venues have halted operations. These establishments, such as Ryugyong Sikdang and Taebosan, were mostly smaller venues with less than fifteen employees. As rent costs soared, North Korean trading companies, which once managed these restaurants, found themselves unable to continue. Consequently, they transferred their management rights to local Chinese businesspeople. Although some began anew as North Korean-style restaurants, they now employ Chinese staff and operators.
Dining Preferences: A Cultural Challenge
The lure of North Korean restaurants once lay in their distinct appeal. Business patrons often entertained clients within private rooms, where meals included traditional performances. However, regular Chinese diners found these experiences costly. For instance, a meal for four could set them back by 700 to 800 yuan. Thus, maintaining a customer base became challenging, pushing many restaurants into financial dire straits.
Surviving Establishments: A Titanic Struggle
Not all North Korean restaurants have succumbed to closure. Larger venues backed by powerful agencies—such as Songdowon and Koryo Restaurant in Dandong—continue to operate. These establishments employ numerous North Korean women who double as waitstaff and performers. The Koryo Restaurant, in particular, serves as a hub for North Korean trade delegations conducting business meetings.
However, even these larger establishments are not immune to financial troubles. A source revealed that Songdowon’s continued operation is due to institutional backing rather than profitability. With Chinese diners avoiding these expensive venues, the financial outlook for all North Korean restaurants in China remains bleak.
The Impact of Economic Factors
While some speculate that political frictions between China and North Korea are to blame, insiders disagree. A source clarified, “The closures are not politically motivated. Rather, it’s China’s underperforming economy that is affecting North Korean restaurants. Should the economy recover, these establishments might witness a resurgence.”
The Uncertain Future
For now, the future of such unique dining experiences remains uncertain. However, if economic conditions improve, there is hope for a revival.
If you’re interested in delving deeper into this development, you can Read in Korean.
As we ponder over this culinary conundrum, we must wait and watch. Who knows what the next chapter holds for these fascinating North Korean eateries in China.
