North Korean nuclear sites visible on Google Maps

Published on 29/01/2013 17:38

GOOGLE has unveiled detailed coverage of North Korea for the first time, offering internet users pinpoint locations of the nation’s landmarks and controversial nuclear research buildings.

The technology giant has also marked locations of the country’s notorious prison labour camps and the 105-storey Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, which is still being built 25 years after construction began.

Sschools, hospitals, theatres and government buildings are also labelled clearly in the capital.

Google executive chairman Eric Schmidt visited North Korea several weeks ago, making a speech warning the secretive state to open its borders to the internet or risk continued technological and international isolation.

The extension of Google’s map of North Korea, generated by their Map Maker tool, is expected will be of special interest to South Koreans who want to find out more about family and ancestors north of the border.

However, only as few hundred people in the north have access to the internet, meaning that most North Koreans will not be able to reap the benefits of Google’s expansion.