With regard to political and civil freedoms, North Korea is 3. Citizens in North Korea experience little to no civil liberties and political rights. Citizens are not free to express themselves and do not enjoy political freedom or a representative government. Countries with this political situation are dangerous for investment, as an authoritarian government may have outsize control over economic matters. The businesses of North Korea are 5 in terms of economic liberty. Citizens in North Korea are considered not free with regards to their economic decisions. The government prohibits all economic activities by citizens, and some illegal business activities could be punishable by imprisonment or even death. Investors should avoid countries that are not free economically, as the risks do not justify any potential gain. In terms of journalistic freedom, the media of North Korea is in a 5. In North Korea, journalists face a very serious situation. Censorship dominates all publications and the government controls the majority of media outlets. Journalists that express opinions against the government may be punished with fines, imprisonment, or death.