Reports surfaced on Monday that cosmetics from the luxury French brand Chanel are gaining popularity among North Korea’s emerging wealthy class, known as Donju.
This trend is attributed to the recent surge in trade between North Korea and China, which has reached its highest level since the COVID-19 pandemic. The increased trade has stimulated the consumption of foreign luxury goods among the upper class. Interestingly, Chinese-made counterfeits are also gaining traction in the market.
Daily NK, a media outlet specializing in North Korean affairs, cited local sources reporting that Chanel lipsticks, cushion compacts, and perfumes are highly sought after by donju residing in border regions such as North Hamgyong Province and Yanggang Province.
While South Korean cosmetics brands like Sulwhasoo were previously favored, stricter customs regulations on South Korean products have made it comparatively easier to import other foreign goods. This shift has led to changing consumer preferences, according to Daily NK.
The trend began with Chinese merchants bringing small quantities of Chanel cosmetics into North Korea as gifts for acquaintances or officials. As demand grew, traders started importing and distributing these products more systematically.
These luxury items command exorbitant prices in North Korea. Daily NK reports that a single Chanel cushion compact costs around 1,000 CNY (approximately 141 USD), while perfumes range from 750 CNY (approximately 106 USD) to 1,250 CNY (approximately 176 USD) depending on size.
The high prices have fueled demand for Chinese counterfeits. A source told Daily NK that fake versions often cost two to three times less than the originals, and many buyers are willing to accept replicas as long as they closely resemble the real product.
It’s worth noting that trading luxury goods with North Korea violates UN Security Council Resolution 1718. However, North Korea continues to import high-end items through indirect routes, including third countries.
The North Korean elite’s penchant for luxury is well-documented. In June, Kim Jong Un’s wife, Ri Sol Ju, made headlines during her first public appearance in 18 months by carrying what appeared to be a Gucci handbag. Previously, she was spotted with a Christian Dior bag during the 2018 inter-Korean summit.
Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, was also seen carrying a Dior bag during her September 2023 visit to a fighter jet factory in Khabarovsk, Russia.