🇰🇵 The colours of North Korea

North Korea’s flag uses red, white, and blue, which are also its national colours. Official explanations link red to patriotism and unity, white to the country’s shared heritage and purity, and blue to the people’s spirit and the aim of peace. Other sources connect these colours to revolutionary tradition, dignity, and friendship.

Where no official value is given, the swatch shows the colour family, not the exact shade.

• The flag’s proportions changed in 2026 from 1:2 to 1:1.65.
• Red, white, and blue are North Korea’s national colours.
• The red star symbolises socialism.
• The flag must be handled and displayed according to strict rules.
• The flag replaced the taegukgi in 1948.

The colours of the flag of North Korea

North Korea’s flag has a wide red band in the centre, bordered above and below by thin white stripes and broad blue stripes. Near the hoist, a red five-pointed star sits inside a white disc. Official accounts say red stands for the people’s unity, their struggle, and the blood shed for independence. White is said to represent the country’s shared heritage and purity, while blue is linked to the people’s spirit and their desire for peace and progress. Other sources mention revolutionary tradition, dignity, and the surrounding seas. The red star is a symbol of socialism.

National colours of North Korea

Red, white, and blue are considered North Korea’s national colours. These colours appear not only on the flag but also represent the country in other official capacities, such as in government and diplomatic contexts. The national flag law and constitution define their use and meaning, but the sources do not mention specific uses in sport or other livery.

How the colours were chosen of North Korea

The current flag was adopted in 1948, replacing the earlier taegukgi. Its creation is credited by the government to Kim Il Sung, though other accounts point to artist Kim Chu-gyong or Soviet influence. The flag’s design and symbolism were debated, with some opposition to replacing the taegukgi, which had represented Korean independence. The flag’s proportions were changed in 2026 from 1:2 to 1:1.65. The symbolism of the colours has been explained differently by various sources over time.

Official shades and rules of North Korea

The flag’s design and use are set out in law and the constitution. The proportions are now 1:1.65. The flag is divided into blue, white, and red stripes in precise ratios, and the star and disc are positioned by set measurements. The flag must be handled respectfully, raised and lowered at specific times, and not used if damaged. Gold tassels may be added for diplomatic ceremonies.