A graduate of the Pyongyang Foreign Languages University, Cha said many of his middle-school classmates chose to enlist in the army instead of studying at university. In this country, which follows a military-first policy, he said the experience of being in the army is beneficial in later life.

Posters of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il are reflected in a bus window at night in Pyongyang. [Wang Jing / China Daily]

When he caught a glimpse of the country's new leader, Kim Jong-un, while accompanying us during an interview, Cha became very excited and later solemnly informed us that we would have to use the word "Comrade" whenever we discussed Kim Jong-un with him.

Although he currently lives with his parents, Cha is planning to marry his long-term girlfriend in the next couple of years, when the young couple will be provided with a house by the state. He told us that his monthly salary is 2,000 DPRK won ($15), but claimed that he never worries about money, because citizens get free medical treatment, education and houses. Food is also issued by the government through a quota system.

However, despite his assertion, Cha was indeed worried about money. He asked why women use cosmetics and perfume. "It really burns money," he sighed.

I told him, "If I have the opportunity to come to Pyongyang again, I will get you some perfume or cosmetics as a gift for your girlfriend".

"No, thanks," he replied. "Can you bring me the latest edition of a Chinese dictionary, instead?"

Primary school pupils on their way home after school in Pyongyang. [Wang Jing / China Daily]