About .kp domain
.kp is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. It is managed by the Star Joint Venture Company and was officially delegated by ICANN in September 2007. The domain's operational history includes a transfer of management from the Korea Computer Center to the current registry in 2011 to restore functionality.
Who can register .kp domain
Registration for a .kp domain is strictly restricted. Only companies, organizations, or government entities based in North Korea are eligible to apply. Individual registrations are not permitted. The registry requires verification of the applicant's legal status and physical presence within the country.
How to register .kp domain
This TLD is not allocated through a standard commercial registrar checkout process. Domain names under .kp are issued through a centralized, non-commercial allocation process managed by the national registry, Star Joint Venture Company. Eligible entities must apply directly to the registry, which evaluates requests based on internal policies and the applicant's verification status. Successful allocation results in the registry configuring the domain within its nameserver infrastructure.
Typical uses of .kp domain
The .kp extension is used almost exclusively by entities connected to North Korea. Its most common use cases are for official government departments, state-run media outlets, academic institutions, and sanctioned businesses operating within the country. Organizations choose this TLD to establish a definitive, nationally recognized online presence that aligns with domestic Internet governance structures, rather than for international commercial appeal.
Tips for registering .kp domain
- Registration is limited to verified organizations based in North Korea; individuals cannot register a .kp domain.
- The public registration website listed in historical IANA records is no longer accessible, indicating a closed application process.
- Domains are structured with specific second-level labels like .gov.kp, .com.kp, and .edu.kp to categorize registrants by type.