Democratic People's Republic of Korea

The effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic, including border closures, restricted mobility and periodic closure of public and child institutions, have reportedly also affected food security and nutrition situation. 

Economic and political issues add further difficulties, with restrictions on international trade and investments imposed by the United Nations Security Council. The strong link between food insecurity and malnutrition means any negative impact on agriculture and food production has widespread and long-lasting consequences, and compounds the already widespread undernutrition that affects millions in the country.

An estimated 10.7 million people – or more than 40 percent of the population – are undernourished and require humanitarian assistance, according to the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World Report 2022. Many people suffer from chronic malnutrition due to lack of essential proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. 

Those living outside towns and cities have worse diets, with many relying on rural relatives, improvised ‘kitchen gardens’ or market activities to supplement the food they receive through the Government’s Public Distribution System. The system consistently provides lower food rations than the Government’s daily target.

Poor nutrition is particularly problematic for young children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, as good nutrition is crucial in a child’s early years. Stunting (impaired growth and development due to chronic malnutrition) affects nearly one in five children under 5 .

The World Food Programme has been providing food assistance in DPRK since 1995, saving lives and making significant progress in reducing levels of child malnutrition.