It was a rare opportunity, and I knew I had to make the most of it. I had been granted permission to photograph one of North Korea’s most famous actresses, Song Hwa-kyung, in a small photo studio in Pyongyang.

Song was a true icon, known for her stunning beauty and her powerful performances on stage and screen. She was a household name in North Korea, and I felt honored to have the chance to capture her image on film.

The studio was small and cramped, with just enough space for a backdrop and a few lights. Song arrived with her entourage, dressed in an elegant hanbok and carrying a small purse.

She was gracious and polite, greeting me with a smile and a bow. I introduced myself and explained my plan for the shoot: a series of portraits that would showcase her beauty and capture her essence as an actress.

Song was hesitant at first, unsure of how to pose or what expression to wear. But I soon put her at ease, chatting with her about her life and her work, and coaxing her into a series of poses that showcased her grace and elegance.

As I snapped away, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. Here I was, photographing one of North Korea’s most famous stars, capturing a moment in time that would be cherished by generations to come.

When the shoot was over, Song thanked me and bowed once again. I felt a pang of sadness as she left the studio, knowing that she was living in a country where artistic expression was tightly controlled and freedom was limited.

But I also felt a sense of hope. Through my photographs, I hoped to share a glimpse of Song’s beauty and talent with the world, to show that even in the darkest of times, art and creativity can flourish.