The Shaped Stones of Chilbo: Walking Through North Korea's Natural Sculptures is a rare and immersive hiking guide that leads readers through the majestic, mysterious, and myth-shrouded peaks of the Chilbo Mountains in North Korea. Blending travel memoir, trail guide, cultural commentary, and natural history, this 20,000-word book opens a window into one of the most closed and least explored mountain ranges in the world.From the dramatic basalt cliffs of Coastal Chilbo to the temple-studded forests of Inner Chilbo and the jagged peaks of Outer Chilbo, the author recounts their journey through these "shaped stones" - ancient volcanic formations with names like Dragon Gate, Tiger Rock, and Manmulsang Maze. Along the way, you'll encounter the unique rhythms of North Korean life, hike under the gaze of ever-present guides, and witness the surreal beauty of a land often imagined only in geopolitics.Complete with maps, gear lists, cultural etiquette, flora and fauna, and a detailed look at travel logistics under North Korean regulations, this book is for the curious trekker, the geopolitical traveler, or anyone fascinated by landscapes rarely seen by the outside world.Whether you're planning the trek of a lifetime or exploring from the safety of your armchair, The Shaped Stones of Chilbo offers a bold and unforgettable guide to one of Earth's most enigmatic mountain sanctuaries.