Fancy Living Next Door to the North Korean Embassy?

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Property neighbouring Gunnersbury Avenue diplomatic mission for sale

The North Korean Embassy on Gunnersbury Avenue. Picture: Google Streetview

October 16, 2025

A detached 1920s residence on Gunnersbury Avenue is currently up for sale. The property is notable not only for its period features and development potential but having the embassy of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in the UK as a next-door neighbour.

The neighbouring building at number 73 was purchased by the North Korean government in 2003 after diplomatic relations were established with this country and it serves as the official diplomatic mission of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. The embassy is situated in a quiet residential area, a contrast to the more central locations typically associated with diplomatic premises. It is understood to be the base of North Korea’s ambassador to the UK, Choe Il, although little is publicly known about the frequency of his presence or the day-to-day operations at the site. Existing neighbours have reported no problems with the secretive occupants of the house.

The adjacent property now for sale for £1.695 million, last 2014 for £1,275,000 and is being marketed by Grimshaws. The listing highlights the home’s elegant layout, spacious rooms, and potential for expansion, as well as the good schools in the area, but does not mention its diplomatic neighbour. The house was previously used as an Airbnb and is being sold freehold with no onward chain.

The residence features accommodation arranged over two floors, including a large entrance hall with a fireplace, two reception rooms—one of which opens onto the rear garden—a kitchen and breakfast room, utility room, and cloakroom. Upstairs, there are four double bedrooms and two bathrooms. The home retains original architectural details such as high coved ceilings and period fireplace surrounds.

Outside, the property offers a west-facing rear lawn garden measuring approximately 134 feet, a front garden with forecourt parking, and a deep garage extending 41 feet along the side. The listing notes the potential for a ground-floor extension and loft conversion, subject to the usual planning permissions.

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