Unjong Tea, known for its unique taste, pleasant aroma, and health benefits, has become a popular drink among the people of the DPRK. Behind this well-loved tea is a long history of dedication and effort to develop domestic tea production.
Kim Il Sung personally planted tea seedlings at his residence and conducted cultivation experiments. He also sent hundreds of tea plants to the Academy of Agricultural Sciences, encouraging research into adapting them to local conditions. He later designated a suitable location in Kangryong County, South Hwanghae Province, as the ideal place for growing tea trees and provided guidance on future research directions.
Kim Jong Il continued these efforts by promoting tea cultivation and research. To honor Kim Il Sung’s contributions, he named the domestically produced tea “Unjong Tea,” a name carrying deep meaning.
Kim Jong Un has also emphasized the importance of expanding tea plantations, improving tea leaf processing technology, and increasing production to provide the people with a variety of tea-based beverages, including cold tea (iced tea). He personally selected the site for the Unjong Tea Beverage Factory and ensured that all necessary resources were provided for its construction.
Today, Unjong Tea products are widely available across the country. They can be enjoyed at the Unjong Tea House in central Pyongyang, as well as at various service facilities such as the Yonphung Scientists’ Rest House and the Masikryong Ski Resort, where they bring joy to visitors.
Recognizing its cultural and health significance, the tradition of cultivating and consuming Unjong Tea—including its brewing methods, packaging, and storage—was officially registered as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage last year. This recognition highlights its role in promoting health, longevity, and an improved quality of life for the people.
