North Korea Reopens Borders to Tourists

North Korea is set to welcome back international tourists by the end of 2023, according to travel agencies, although experts caution that this reopening may be hindered by ongoing political tensions and the country’s harsh winter conditions. The tourism sector has been significantly impacted since the regime closed its borders in 2020, which not only affected trade with China but also deprived the government of valuable tourist revenue. Despite the resumption of some international flights and a limited tour for Russian visitors earlier this year, North Korea remains largely inaccessible to foreign travelers. The North Korean government has maintained that the closure was necessary to project an image of a modern and unified nation, centered around the Kim dynasty. The country has reportedly developed new tourist infrastructure, including hotels and a ski resort, particularly around Mount Paektu, a site of cultural significance. Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based travel agency, expressed enthusiasm for the reopening, indicating that details regarding itineraries would be finalized soon. However, experts warn that the reopening could be complicated by the severe winter weather in regions like Samjiyon, as well as the country’s limited infrastructure. Initial tourism is expected to be primarily from Chinese and Russian nationals, especially following recent diplomatic engagements between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin. Prior to the pandemic, North Korea attracted around 300,000 foreign tourists in 2019, generating significant revenue, but experts believe that numbers may not return to pre-pandemic levels without improved relations with China. Tourism in North Korea has always been tightly controlled, with guided tours being the only option for visitors. While the country is slowly reopening, the system of strict oversight remains unchanged, ensuring that tourists will continue to be monitored closely during their visits.