Many find it hard to believe, but the secretive State of North Korea was among the economically stronger countries in the 70’s and 80’s.
Once, Sweden agreed to send a batch of 1000 Volvo 144 sedans to be used as taxis in North Korea in 1974.
However, the Democratic People’s Republic Of Korea (DPRK) never actually paid for all those Volvos.
As per the Swedish Export Credit Agency, the interest and penalties on the amount due for the cars has grown to a staggering $322 million over the last 40-odd years, which is approximately Rs 22,000 crore.
Some of those taxis can still be seen plying on the streets of Pyong Yang.
Interestingly, the Swedish authorities still send bills to North Korea twice every year, despite knowing that the chance of getting the payment is close to zero.