North Korea
North Korea has the structural profile of a relatively industrialized country where nearly half of the Gross Domestic Product is generated by industry and human development is at medium levels. Purchasing power parity (PPP) GDP is estimated at $40 billion, with a very low per capita value of $1,800. In 2012, Gross national income per capita was $1,523, compared to $28,430 in South Korea. The North Korean won is the national currency, issued by the Central Bank of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Korean currency
The history of Korean currency dates back around 3rd century BC, when first coins in the form of knife coins, also known as "Myeongdojun" belonging to the state of Yan and Gojoseon said to have been circulated. Grain coins were put to use within the kingdoms for a long period of time. The kingdom of Goryeo issued its own version of grain coins and till 1097. The first iron and bronze coins minted in Korea occurred during the 15th year (996 AD) of the reign of King Seonjeong. During the reign of King Sukjong, a monetary system of casting a variety of coins was established in the years 1097-1107. These coins included the 東國 (Dongguk "Eastern Country"), 海東 (Haedong "Eastern Sea") and 三韓 (Samhan "Three States") series of coins. Coins made from metals other than iron like copper and also silver vase-shaped coins (unbyŏng 銀瓶) were issued in the 10th and 11th century but their circulation was limited).