So that’s what a North Korean missile looks like…

In celebration of the 100th birthday of founder Kim Il Sung, North Korea recently invited a handful of foreign journalists into the secretive country. Of most interest to Western eyes: an unprecedented tour of the Tongchang-ri space center. Currently, the 3 stage rocket sits fully assembled, awaiting it’s launch. The Atlantic’s Alan Taylor has been posting some amazing photos – and not just of the country’s missile technology. He also shares a rare glimpse of the country itself… and a taste of the most isolated, brain-washed culture on Earth. Check out the photos here.

Yes, it looks like a model from Thunderbirds Are Go. But it's real, I promise.