105 Stories High: Inside the Mysterious Ryugyong Hotel, the Building with the Most Floors
North Korea's Architectural Enigma
In the heart of Pyongyang, North Korea, stands a colossal pyramid-shaped structure that has captured the imagination of the world. The Ryugyong Hotel, with its 105 stories, is one of the tallest buildings in the world - a stark contrast to the surrounding cityscape.
A Towering Legacy of the Cold War
Construction of the Ryugyong Hotel began in 1987, at the height of the Cold War between North Korea and South Korea. Designed by Egyptian architect Baik Doo-un, the hotel was intended to be a symbol of North Korea's economic and technological prowess. However, the project was plagued by delays and funding issues, and construction was halted in 1992.
Unveiling the Mystery
For years, the Ryugyong Hotel remained an unfinished shell, its glassless windows staring out over Pyongyang. In 2011, work resumed, and in 2018, the hotel finally opened for business. However, despite its grand facade, the interior remains largely empty, with only a few floors occupied.
A Building with Many Floors... But Few Guests
The Ryugyong Hotel has 105 floors, but only a small fraction of them are actually used. The hotel offers 3,000 rooms, yet it has been reported that occupancy rates are extremely low. Some floors are said to be used for storage, while others remain unfinished and inaccessible.
A Symbol of North Korea's Ambitions and Contradictions
The Ryugyong Hotel is a complex and contradictory building. It is a symbol of North Korea's architectural ambitions, but also of its economic struggles. Despite its unfinished state, the hotel has become an iconic landmark, a testament to the country's determination and resilience.
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