North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, is a country located in East Asia. It is known for its heavily centralized and authoritarian government led by the Kim dynasty. North Korea has a mixed reputation internationally, with widespread human rights abuses and a history of nuclear weapons development. The country is highly isolated from the rest of the world, with strict controls on information and limited contact with outsiders. Relations with North Korea are a major focus of international diplomacy, with efforts to denuclearize the country and improve human rights conditions.