14 DAY TRIAL // Fotopedia, the publisher of several iOS applications with a focus on the diversity of human culture, today announced “Fotopedia North Korea,” a brand new app that provides a rare glimpse into the country.
Offering one of the largest collections of professional photographs taken inside the “Hermit Kingdom,” Fotopedia North Korea features stunning, striking and occasionally shocking images, according to Fotopedia.
Nonetheless, the images are sure to provide a realistic insight into the culture, activities, places and people of present-day North Korea, photographer Eric Lafforgue believes.
“I traveled to North Korea four times between 2008 and 2010, always under strict supervision. Taking pictures was a constant game of cat and mouse,” said Eric Lafforgue, professional photographer.
“I chose to photograph everything I could, without passing judgment, even if some images could be considered shocking from the point of view of the rest of the world,” Lafforgue said.
Jean Marie Hullot, CEO of Fotopedia, commented on the release of their new app, saying, “Today you can easily find pictures of almost anything. But it is still hard to imagine what North Korea looks like.”
“We are delighted to make Eric’s remarkable collection easily accessible so you can see for yourself. If you look closely, you may feel a deep sense of the universality of human trials – and perhaps compassion for those who seek peace and happiness in the aftermath of decades of war and isolation,” added Hullot.
Before users take the plunge (as in download the free app), Eric and Fotopedia ask users to note that they do not endorse or approve of the North Korean regime.
Both the photographer and the publisher admit that at least a handful of images (such as those of the propaganda), may be shocking for some.
“Yet, the best way to tell the story is to show everything Eric was able to bring back with him,” say the people at Fotopedia.
Fotopedia North Korea is designed for both iPhone and iPad, and supports iPod touch players as well. It requires iOS 4.0 or later and it’s free to download internationally.