In an anticipated move signaling a shift in travel policies, North Korea is gearing up to welcome international tourists once again this winter, marking the end of its strict COVID-19 travel restrictions. Tour operators specializing in North Korean travel, such as KTG and Koryo Tours, have confirmed that local partners in North Korea have communicated plans to reopen specific areas to foreign visitors.
Reopening Plans
By December, tourists will be able to visit the city of Samjiyon, known for its scenic mountainous landscape. While the announcement is exciting for travel operators and prospective tourists alike, it suggests that other regions of North Korea may also open up in the near future. Koryo Tours, based in Beijing, expressed its enthusiasm, stating, “Having waited for over four years to make this announcement, Koryo Tours is very excited for the opening of North Korean tourism once again.”
Background and Preparations
Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, North Korea has remained largely closed to foreign visitors. Although some international flights resumed last year, tourism has been minimal, with only a handful of visitors reported, including a small group from Russia in February. The country has been preparing for this reopening by enhancing its tourism infrastructure, particularly in Samjiyon, a city located near the Chinese border.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has actively promoted Samjiyon as a “model of highly-civilised mountain city,” showcasing new hotels, attractions, and even a ski resort. This development aligns with the nation’s broader strategy to boost its economy, which has suffered significantly due to the pandemic.
Economic Implications
The resumption of tourism could play a crucial role in North Korea’s economic recovery efforts. According to Koryo Tours, introductory packages for visiting the country typically range from 600 to 1,500 euros per person, influenced by factors such as departure location, trip duration, group size, and accommodations. It’s important to note, however, that citizens of the Republic of Korea are currently prohibited from traveling to North Korea for tourism.
Travel Advisory and Target Audience
While North Korea is making strides to reopen its borders, the U.S. government continues to issue strong advisories against travel to the country. U.S. passports are generally invalid for entry into North Korea, unless specific permission is granted by the Department of State.
The reopening of Samjiyon is likely aimed at attracting Chinese tourists, who represented the largest segment of international visitors prior to the pandemic. In 2019, approximately 350,000 Chinese tourists traveled to North Korea, providing a vital source of revenue for the regime.
Conclusion
As North Korea prepares to open its doors to the world once more, the tourism sector may see a revitalization that not only benefits the economy but also fosters international connections. The upcoming months will be pivotal in determining how effectively the country can navigate the complexities of reopening while ensuring the safety and security of its visitors.
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