Issued by the Central Bank of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) in 1988, this 1 Won note reflects socialist iconography typical of the country’s banknotes.
The obverse features a portrait of a young worker in uniform, symbolizing the ideals of labor and patriotism promoted during this period. Decorative patterns and the state emblem of North Korea appear in the background.
The reverse shows industrial motifs with a factory scene, highlighting the nation’s focus on self-reliance and heavy industry. Printed on standard cotton paper, it includes a watermark with geometric patterns for authenticity. The note measures 125 × 55 mm.
Obverse
Stylized nuclear power symbol, Winged equestrian statue “Chŏllima” in Pyongyang and National Coat of Arms
Script: Hangul
Lettering:
조선민주주의인민공화국
무역은행
외화와바꾼돈표
1 원
일원 1988
Translation: Foreign Trade Bank of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Foreign currency exchange, One Won
Reverse
Denomination
Script: Hangul
Lettering:
조선민주주의인민공화국
무역은행
일원
Translation: Foreign Trade Bank of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, One Won
Comments
27a.2; Purple colour, Issued during the Pyongyang Cultural Festival in 1995
27 A; Blue colour without printing over watermark area at right on front, Black serial number, and red Korean characters at right on front, issued during the Arirang Festival (2002-2003)
Features
| Issuer | North Korea |
|---|---|
| Issuing bank | Foreign Trade Bank of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea ((조선민주주의인민공화국무역은행/朝鮮民主主義人民共和國貿易銀行; Chosŏn Minjujuŭi Inmin Gonghwaguk Muyŏk Ǔnhaeng)) |
| Period | Democratic People’s Republic (1948-date) |
| Type | Standard circulation banknotes |
| Year | 1988 (1988-2003) |
| Value | 1 Won (1 KPW) |
| Currency | Second Won (1959-2009) |
| Composition | Paper |
| Size | 110 × 55 mm |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Demonetized | 1992 |
