North Korea is preparing to welcome international tourists again after a prolonged closure that began in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Two tour operators based in China, Koryo Tours and KTG Tours, have announced that the reclusive nation will open its borders to visitors starting in December 2024. This announcement marks a significant milestone for North Korea, which has largely remained isolated from the world during the pandemic.
Koryo Tours, which has been facilitating travel to North Korea for over 30 years, expressed excitement about this reopening, stating on its website that it has never experienced such an extended shutdown of tourism operations. The company plans to focus on the northeastern city of Samjiyon, a site that has been promoted as a model of a "highly civilized mountain city." KTG Tours, based in Shenyang, echoed this sentiment, confirming that tourists would also be able to visit Samjiyon by the end of 2024.
Samjiyon, located near the border with China, has been developed by the North Korean government into what it describes as a "socialist utopia." The city features new infrastructure, including apartments, hotels, a ski resort, and various cultural and medical facilities. However, recent reports indicate that some senior officials involved in the project were demoted or dismissed for their "irresponsible" management of the development. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the government's initiatives in promoting tourism.
International air travel to and from North Korea resumed last year with a limited group of Russian tourists who visited for a private tour in February. This visit followed a series of diplomatic engagements between North Korea and Russia, with Kim Jong Un making a rare trip to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in September 2023, followed by Putin's visit to North Korea in June 2024. These interactions have highlighted a growing partnership between the two nations, particularly in the context of tourism and economic cooperation.
As North Korea prepares to reopen its borders, Koryo Tours has stated that its website will soon be available for bookings, pending confirmation of itineraries and dates from its local partners. The company emphasized that the safety and enjoyment of tourists will be their top priorities. This reopening comes at a time when the global tourism industry is recovering from the impacts of the pandemic, and North Korea's unique offerings may attract adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
However, the prospect of tourism in North Korea also raises concerns about the country's human rights record and the treatment of visitors. Tourists are typically required to adhere to strict regulations and are often accompanied by government-approved guides. Despite these limitations, the allure of exploring one of the world's most secretive nations continues to draw interest from travelers around the globe.
As the December reopening approaches, both Koryo Tours and KTG Tours are preparing to navigate the complexities of tourism in North Korea, aiming to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for their clients while adhering to the regulations set by the North Korean government. The world will be watching closely to see how this new chapter in North Korean tourism unfolds.
