That said, it is easier to know things about Portugal than NK. They are definitely doing something to hide information. I'm just trying to say that any image based on the media from non friendly country is bound to be wrong. No matter how much different sources you have.
My understanding is that tourists in North Korea only see what the government of North Korea wants them to see.
Here's one (admittedly potentially biased) source that claims as much:
"Tourist travel to North Korea is only possible as part of a guided tour. Independent travel is not permitted. If you are not prepared to accept severe limitations on your movements, behaviour, and freedom of expression, you should not travel to North Korea." [0]
No you cannot. You'll be chaperoned everywhere and only shown things they want you to see.
you're also not allowed to travel without a guide.
also, given the videos I've seen taken by tourists when they've been able to sneak away from their minders, NK does not look very happy.
Regardless, we know a lot from NK from multiple sources. The main reason we don't know more is because of how closed that dictatorship is.