As you race the Pyongyang Marathon through the streets of Pyongyang, you’ll pass some of its most iconic landmarks. Here's what to look out for!
The Pyongyang Marathon is back after five years!
On April 6, 2025, runners will take to the streets of North Korea’s capital once again.
As you gear up for this unique experience, get familiar with some of Pyongyang’s most iconic landmarks you’ll see along the route. From grand monuments to revolutionary squares that shape the city’s skyline.
Here are eight iconic Pyongyang landmarks you'll pass along your Pyongyang Marathon route.
Pyongyang Marathon 2025 Route
1. Kim Il Sung Stadium
The Kim Il Sung Stadium is where your Pyongyang Marathon journey begins and ends.
This historic venue has hosted some of North Korea’s most significant events and can seat around 50,000 spectators. Although Koreans may claim it can hold 100,000 people. This would be without seating.
It remains the second-largest stadium in North Korea, after the colossal May Day Stadium.
Read more on the Kim Il Sung Stadium here
2. The Arch of Triumph
Standing at 60 metres tall, the North Korean Arch of Triumph actually surpasses its famous Parisian counterpart..!
Built to commemorate Kim Il Sung’s role in the liberation of Korea from Japanese rule in 1945, the Arch of Triumph is a symbol of national pride.
The numbers "1925" and "1945" are displayed on either side of the Arch of Triumph, symbolizing Kim Il Sung's 20 years abroad in China and Russia before returning to Korea.
While you may not have time to stop for photos during the race, you’ll pass this impressive monument multiple times.
Read more on Pyongyang Arch of Triumph here.
3. Kim Il Sung Square
As one of Pyongyang’s most recognisable locations, Kim Il Sung Square is where North Korea’s military parades and mass rallies take place.
Spanning 75,000 square meters, the square is paved with granite, adding to its grandeur and durability.
You’ll see the Grand People’s Study House in the background, featuring massive portraits of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.
Every visitor to Pyongyang takes a moment here. Your chance will be during the marathon!
Read more on Kim Il Sung Square here
4. Pyongyang Grand Theatre
A key stop along the Pyongyang Marathon route, the Pyongyang Grand Theatre is a hub for Revolutionary Opera performances.
Pyongyang’s most renowned theatre. Its traditional Korean-style sweeping roofs make it one of the city's most distinctive landmarks.
Even decades after its completion, it remains a cultural icon.
Read more on Pyongyang Grand Theatre here
5. Mirae Scientists Street
Pyongyang is more than just revolutionary monuments... It also boasts modern districts.
Mirae Scientists Street, built at "Pyongyang speed" in 2015, houses scientists and researchers from Kim Chaek University of Technology.
Its wide six-lane boulevard and futuristic high-rises showcase North Korea’s drive for modernisation.
Dominating the skyline is the Mirae Unha Tower, one of Pyongyang’s tallest buildings, designed to resemble a stretched atom.
Read more on Mirae Future Scientist's Street here
6. Mangyongdae Children's Palace
The Mangyongdae Children’s Palace is located on Kwangbok (Liberation) Street in northern Mangyongdae District.
It is a massive extracurricular education centre for young North Koreans.
This grand building features 120 rooms, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, a library, and a 2,000-seat theatre where talented students perform.
Its unique design is said to represent the outstretched arms of a mother—a striking architectural symbol in Pyongyang.
Read more on Mangyongdae Children's Palace here
7. Kalrimgil Bridge
A notable bridge along the marathon route, Kalrimgil Bridge offers scenic views as you make your way through the city.
It’s a brief but memorable section of the race, connecting different districts of Pyongyang.
8. Ryugyong Hotel
Although not directly on the marathon route, Ryugyong Hotel dominates Pyongyang’s skyline.
It stands as the world's tallest unoccupied building and one of North Korea's most iconic hotels.
This 330-metre pyramid-shaped skyscraper remains one of the city’s most recognisable structures.
It’s impossible to miss. Wherever you are in Pyongyang, you’ll see it standing tall.
Read more on Ryugyong Hotel here
Which of these landmarks are you most excited to see on race day?
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