But, as it has turned out, the North Korean officials have been outstandingly helpful. We are staying in the best hotel in town, with abundant food. Pyongyang is the physical expression of order and control. Ten-lane highways carry about 12 cars. As far as we can tell there are no private motor vehicles, and the players' attempts to spot a petrol station have failed.
Shops are hard to distinguish.
Hundreds of big grey apartment blocks 20 to 30 storeys tall dominate the cityscape. Except for air and water pollution, the city is remarkably clean. These badges are not bought, they are awarded. Pictures of one or both leaders are in all public places. Huge portraits of one or both standing in front of waterfalls or sunsets are in all the hotel lobbies.