North Korean authorities are intensifying inspections and controls as homemade cosmetics gain popularity over state-manufactured goods.
A source in South Pyongan Province reported that in recent years, privately produced soaps, shampoos, and other personal care items have become increasingly popular in North Korean markets. Meanwhile, products from official factories like the Pyongyang Cosmetics Factory and Sinuiju Cosmetics Factory are seen as overpriced and poorly regarded by consumers.
The trend began in the early 2000s when researchers from the State Academy of Sciences in Pyongsung and Hamhung started producing handmade cosmetics to overcome economic hardships. These products initially met high demand during a period when state-produced goods were scarce and were well-received by residents.
Though homemade cosmetics were of lower quality at first, they have significantly improved over the years and now reportedly surpass state-produced alternatives in popularity and sales. This raises questions about why authorities would target products that consumers prefer.
The crackdown reflects a broader pattern of the Workers’ Party suppressing individual autonomy in economic activities. Despite rhetoric about serving the people, the party consistently disregards citizens’ preferences in economic decisions, product pricing, distribution, and sales.
True autonomy would mean allowing citizens to decide what to eat daily, what products to make, purchase, and use—essentially the freedom to reject party policies and choose alternatives. Activities like creating and selecting homemade products should be encouraged rather than suppressed.
