Convert North Korean Won (KPW) to Russian Ruble (RUB)

Details for North Korean Won (KPW) Currency

Introduction : The North Korean Won (KPW) is the official currency of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea). Represented by the symbol ₩ and the ISO code KPW, it is used exclusively within North Korea’s tightly controlled economy. The currency is issued by the Central Bank of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and primarily circulates in physical form. Due to the closed nature of the North Korean economy, the won is not freely convertible and has limited interaction with international financial markets. It plays a central role in domestic trade, state-controlled services, and the regulated market system inside the country.

History & Origin : The North Korean Won was first introduced in 1947, replacing the Korean yen after the end of Japanese rule. It was established as part of the formation of an independent North Korean state and has undergone several redenominations over time, notably in 1959, 1979, 1992, and 2009. The 2009 redenomination aimed to curb inflation and reduce the value of hoarded money but led to economic instability and public unrest. Throughout its history, the KPW has remained isolated from the global economy. Official exchange rates differ drastically from black-market rates due to the state's currency controls and lack of convertibility.

Current Use : Within North Korea, the won is used for most state-provided goods, services, and basic consumer purchases. There is a dual system of pricing, with some special stores and trade outlets using foreign currency—mainly Chinese yuan, US dollars, or euros—for select goods. This dual system reflects the limitations of the won’s purchasing power. While North Korean citizens use the KPW for daily transactions, its real value fluctuates significantly, particularly in unofficial markets. Despite this, the government mandates the use of the won in most domestic contexts, aiming to preserve state control over the economy and monetary circulation.

Details of North Korea

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country located on the northern part of the Korean Peninsula in East Asia. It shares borders with China, Russia, and South Korea, and has a coastline along the Sea of Japan (East Sea). Pyongyang is the capital and largest city, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.

The country was established in 1948 following the division of Korea after World War II. Under the leadership of Kim Il-sung, North Korea adopted a strict communist system and later developed the Juche ideology—a self-reliance principle that still defines its political and economic policies. The country remains under the rule of the Kim dynasty, with Kim Jong-un as its current leader.

North Korea has a centrally planned economy heavily controlled by the state. Agriculture, mining, and heavy industry form the economic base, but sanctions, poor infrastructure, and limited global engagement have hindered growth. The country maintains a closed economy with restricted foreign investment and trade. Most citizens rely on public distribution systems, state-assigned jobs, and minimal market activity.

Internationally, North Korea is known for its nuclear weapons program and strict control over civil liberties. Foreign media, internet access, and free speech are heavily restricted. Despite political isolation, the country maintains diplomatic and trade relations with a few nations, primarily China and Russia. The population endures economic hardship, but the government continues to emphasize military strength and ideological unity.

Despite the challenges, North Korea possesses a rich cultural heritage with unique traditions, arts, and a deep sense of national identity. Its mountainous landscapes, ancient sites, and deeply rooted customs reflect a complex society shaped by both historical struggle and strong nationalism.

Details for Russian Ruble (RUB) Currency

Introduction : The Russian Ruble (RUB), symbolized as '₽', is the official currency of the Russian Federation. It plays a fundamental role in the daily life of Russia's citizens and is the primary medium for all economic transactions, including retail, business, and governmental operations. Managed and issued by the Central Bank of Russia, the ruble is subdivided into 100 kopeks. It is available in both coin and banknote forms, featuring iconic Russian landmarks and historical figures. The ruble stands as a symbol of national identity and economic autonomy, reflecting Russia's stature as a global power with a large and diversified economy.

History & Origin : The ruble has a long and storied history, tracing its origins back to the 13th century when it was used as a unit of weight for silver in Kievan Rus. It became a recognized currency in the 14th century and has since evolved through many political changes. During the Imperial period, it was one of the world's strongest currencies. Following the Russian Revolution in 1917, the Soviet ruble replaced the imperial version. After the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, the modern Russian ruble was introduced and has undergone several redenominations and reforms. The most recent was in 1998, following a financial crisis that led to a major devaluation. Since then, the ruble has been stabilized and remains the backbone of Russia's monetary system.

Current Use : The Russian Ruble is used for all financial transactions across Russia, from small everyday purchases to large-scale industrial operations. It is also used in several Russian-aligned regions and is sometimes accepted in neighboring countries with close economic ties. The ruble is an integral part of Russia’s energy-driven economy, with oil and gas exports often priced in rubles under certain trade agreements. Despite international sanctions and economic challenges, the ruble continues to circulate robustly within the domestic market. Russia has increased efforts to digitize its financial system, introducing a digital ruble pilot to modernize payments and reduce reliance on foreign currencies.

Details of Russia

Russia, officially known as the Russian Federation, is the largest country in the world by land area, stretching across Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Spanning eleven time zones and covering a diverse range of landscapes, from tundra and forests to mountains and steppes, Russia is home to over 140 million people. Its capital, Moscow, is a major cultural, political, and economic center, while other key cities like Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk, and Yekaterinburg play vital roles in national development.

Historically, Russia has a rich cultural and imperial legacy. It rose to prominence as the Tsardom of Russia in the 16th century and later became a major global empire. After the Russian Revolution of 1917, it became the central republic of the Soviet Union, which played a crucial role in global affairs during the 20th century. The collapse of the USSR in 1991 led to the modern Russian Federation. Since then, Russia has undergone significant political and economic transformations, striving to balance modernization with its traditional geopolitical stance.

Economically, Russia is a resource-rich country, possessing vast reserves of oil, natural gas, coal, and precious metals. It is one of the world's leading energy exporters, and its economy is heavily influenced by global commodity prices. In addition to its resource-based economy, Russia has robust industrial, agricultural, and technological sectors. The country is also known for its achievements in science, space exploration, literature, and classical music. Despite facing international sanctions and internal economic challenges, Russia continues to assert itself as a major global player, with significant influence in geopolitical and economic affairs across Eurasia and beyond.

Convert North Korean Won to Other Currencies

FAQ on North Korean Won (KPW) to Russian Ruble (RUB) Conversion: