Area Code 2381 – Pyongyang
The phone area code for Pyongyang is 2381 (international format +8502381). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📍 Geographic Location of Pyongyang
Overview of Area Code 2381
Area code 2381 is a geographic destination code assigned to the Pyongyang region of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea). It forms part of the national numbering plan under the country code +850, as defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU-T E.164). The code is used to route calls to fixed-line subscribers within the capital city and its immediate administrative districts.
Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction
The 2381 code serves the Pyongyang Directly Governed City, which is the national capital and the largest metropolis in North Korea. It encompasses central administrative districts such as Chung-guyok, Taedonggang-guyok, and Potonggang-guyok, along with surrounding urban areas. As a geographic prefix, it is tied to the physical PSTN infrastructure of the capital, which is operated by the state-owned Korea Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (KPTC).
Dialing Formats and Caller Instructions
For international callers, the complete dialing sequence is: +850 2381 XXX XXX (or the local number format). For example, a typical number might be dialed as +850 2381 234567. The national significant number (NSN) for North Korea is 10 digits in length, including the leading '2' of the area code. When dialing domestically from another region within North Korea, callers must use the trunk prefix '0' followed by the area code and subscriber number: 0 2381 XXX XXX. However, local calls within Pyongyang may be possible without the area code, depending on the specific exchange and the calling party's location.
Overlay and Numbering Considerations
As of the latest available data, there is no overlay code for Pyongyang; the 2381 code remains the primary geographic code for the capital. However, due to the country's limited international connectivity and the state-controlled telecommunications network, international calls to North Korea are often routed through third-party carriers and may be subject to call completion issues. Callers should verify with their service provider regarding any special dialing requirements or restrictions.
Practical Guidance for Callers
When calling a Pyongyang landline from abroad, always replace the international access prefix (e.g., '00' or '011') with the '+' sign when using a mobile phone. Ensure that you have the correct number of digits after the area code, as North Korean phone numbers are not widely published and may vary in length. For businesses or individuals attempting to reach Pyongyang, it is advisable to confirm the number with the intended recipient in advance, as the national network operates under strict government oversight.