On Sept. 10, the Cabinet’s Public Service Bureau issued a nationwide directive to “eliminate immoral behavior” in facilities such as skin care centers, hair salons, massage parlors and bathhouses, a source in North Hamgyong province told The Daily NK.
The directive warns that violators face six months of labor re-education or, in severe cases, banishment to rural areas.
The order applies to both state-run and privately operated facilities. North Korea has recently allowed more private businesses to collect taxes.
The source said North Koreans prefer private establishments, which offer better services than outdated state-run facilities. However, this has led to an increase in illicit activities.
“It’s common for wealthy patrons to expect sexual services along with massages at bathhouses,” the source said. “This kind of behavior has become normalized.”
Massage prices range from $10-$15 for legs only to $20-$40 for full body, with rates varying widely.
The source added that operators are likely to continue such practices for profit, despite government warnings. Even if caught, many can avoid punishment through bribery.
The Daily NK works with a network of sources in North Korea, China, and elsewhere. For security reasons, their identities remain anonymous.
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