Area Code 28 – Pyongyang
The phone area code for Pyongyang is 28 (international format +85028). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📍 Geographic Location of Pyongyang
Geographic Overview
The +850 28 country-code and prefix combination routes calls to the Pyongyang direct exchange area within the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). As a geographic National Destination Code (NDC), 28 is allocated to the capital city and its immediate administrative surroundings, including central districts such as Moranbong, Chung-guyok, and Taedonggang. This code is used exclusively for fixed-line PSTN subscribers within the Pyongyang municipality; it does not cover mobile or VoIP services, which operate under separate non-geographic prefixes.
Dialing Formats
For international callers, the complete number format is: +850 28 XXXX XXX (or +850 28 XXX XXXX depending on the subscriber line length). The national significant number (NSN) length is typically 9 or 10 digits, including the leading '0' that is dropped when dialing from abroad. For example, a local Pyongyang number might appear as 02 381 XXXX in domestic format, but when calling from outside North Korea, you must dial +850 28 381 XXXX (omitting the trunk prefix '0').
Domestic callers within North Korea dial the trunk prefix '0' followed by the area code and subscriber number: 0 28 XXXX XXX. However, due to the country's limited international connectivity, most calls to North Korea are routed via operator assistance or satellite links, and direct international dialing may not always be available.
Regulatory and Technical Notes
The numbering plan follows ITU-T E.164 recommendations, but the DPRK's telecommunications infrastructure is state-controlled and not publicly documented in detail. The 28 code is part of the national numbering plan administered by the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications. Overlay codes are not in use; the 28 prefix is exclusive to Pyongyang's fixed network. Callers should be aware that international calls to North Korea may experience high latency or routing failures due to limited bandwidth and international gateway restrictions.
For businesses or individuals attempting to reach Pyongyang, it is essential to confirm the correct number length with the recipient, as subscriber numbers may vary. Additionally, since 2011, some mobile services in Pyongyang have been introduced under the Koryolink network, but these use the +850 191 prefix, not 28. Therefore, dialing +850 28 will only connect to landlines within the capital's geographic area.