North Korea has canceled foreign tourism just weeks after reopening to Western visitors. This decision comes after initially easing COVID-related travel restrictions and welcoming tourists to Rason. Tour operators have confirmed cancellations and uncertainties about the future of travel to North Korea.
North Korea has made the sudden decision to cease foreign tourism, just weeks after reopening to Western visitors for the first time in five years. This development follows an initial relaxation of travel restrictions that had been imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic starting in early 2020. In 2023, the country welcomed tourists from Russia, and more recently, international travelers from nations such as Britain, Canada, France, and Germany were permitted to visit the designated special economic zone of Rason.
During their visits, the foreign tourists were closely monitored and guided through various attractions including factories, shops, and monuments dedicated to former North Korean leaders. Reports indicate that unlike their Russian counterparts, these Western tourists were not allowed to explore the capital city of Pyongyang. Tour operators have announced the cancellation of all travel to North Korea until further notice, with the reasons for this abrupt closure remaining unclear.
Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based tour operator, reported this situation stating, “We have been informed that Rason is temporarily CLOSED. It’s an unprecedented situation.” Similar statements were echoed by Young Pioneer Tours, which advised potential travelers for April and May not to make flight arrangements until further clarification is provided. They also mentioned that refunds would be available for canceled tours.
Prior to the pandemic, North Korea attracted hundreds of thousands of Chinese tourists, generating approximately $175 million in 2019, according to NK News. The country has recently strengthened its relations with Russia, hosting almost 900 Russian tourists in 2024, as per data from the South Korean Unification Ministry. The United States has prohibited its citizens from traveling to North Korea since 2017, following the tragic death of American student Otto Warmbier.
In summary, North Korea’s abrupt halt of foreign tourism raises concerns regarding the situation within the country and the future of international travel to this isolated nation. Following a brief period of openness to Western tourists, the sudden closure has left many in the travel industry uncertain about the timeline and reason behind this decision. As North Korea maintains its relationships with Russia, the landscape of tourism remains complex and unpredictable.
Original Source: www.paxnews.com
