Located in the Changchung neighborhood of Songyo-guyok in East Pyongyang, Changchung Cathedral offers you a unique look at one of only four official Christian places of worship in North Korea's capital. Built in 1988, this venue stands on a complex history; before the division of Korea, Pyongyang was known as the "Korean Jerusalem," where nearly one-sixth of citizens were Christian. The city's original late 19th-century red brick cathedral was destroyed during the Korean War, leading to the construction of this modern facility under the Korean Catholic Association.
When you visit, you will encounter a cathedral operating under very distinct circumstances. Because it is not affiliated with the Holy See, there is no resident bishop or ordained priest on site. However, you may learn about its occasional services led by visiting foreign clergy, as well as an agreement allowing South Korean priests to celebrate Mass and administer sacraments on major feast days.
During your time here, you can also discover its connection to an associated noodle factory, which receives financial support from Catholic Koreans in the United States and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul. It is a rare, historically significant destination to include on your trip.
What to see at Changchung Cathedral
- One of only four official Christian places of worship in Pyongyang
- Opened in 1988 in the Changchung neighborhood of Songyo-guyok
- Occasional Masses celebrated by visiting foreign and South Korean clergy
- Associated noodle factory supported by Catholic groups in Seoul and the US
Visiting tips
Consider arranging your travel around major feast days if you wish to see Mass celebrated by visiting priests.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Major feast days
How to get there & what’s nearby
Changchung Cathedral is easy to reach on Pyongyang’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Kumsusan Palace of the Sun and Arch of Reunification. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Pyongyang travel guide.
See the full Pyongyang travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.