Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun is a state mausoleum in Pyongyang that contains the preserved bodies of North Korea’s founding leader Kim Il-sung and his son Kim Jong-il. It serves as a central site for state ceremonies and official homage.

The complex includes formal halls for public viewing of the preserved leaders, exhibition rooms with state gifts and displays, and preserved rooms that were part of the leaders’ official residence. Visits are conducted under strict rules and protocol.

Originally constructed as an official residence, the building was converted into a mausoleum and expanded to accommodate state displays and public ceremonial space following the deaths of the leaders. It is a focal point for official commemorations and foreign delegations.

The palace sits in Pyongyang and is a prominent site within the city’s ceremonial district. It is managed as a national memorial and is typically included on official tour itineraries subject to state controls.

• Function: Houses the embalmed remains of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il and functions as the DPRK's principal state mausoleum and shrine.

What to See #

• Main Mausoleum Halls: Main mausoleum halls containing the embalmed bodies and state displays, presented with strict ceremonial arrangements and viewing protocols for visitors.
• Exhibition and state rooms: Exhibition rooms and preserved offices that display state gifts, documents and items associated with the leaders' lives and rule.