After nearly five years of strict COVID-19 restrictions, North Korea is poised to welcome international tourists once again. Starting in December 2024, tourists will be allowed to visit the northeastern city of Samjiyon, with the possibility of opening up more locations, according to announcements from two China-based tour operators Koryo Tours and KTG Tours.
Once again for North Korean Tourism
North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, has kept its borders closed since early 2020 as a precaution against the COVID-19 pandemic. This move isolated the country from the rest of the world, cutting off not only tourism but also essential imports, which led to significant food shortages done by international sanctions over its nuclear program.
However, recent announcements by tour companies have revealed that North Korea is ready to ease these restrictions. Beijing's Koryo Tours expressed its excitement, 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."
The Rebirth of "Samjiyon"
Samjiyon, located near the Chinese border, is undergoing a significant transformation. Once a military ski base, it is being redeveloped into what North Korean leaders call a "socialist utopia". The city now boasts new apartments, hotels, and ski resorts, aiming to become a model of a "highly civilized mountain city".
The area is also of great cultural significance, lying at the foot of Mount Paektu, the highest mountain in North Korea. According to North Korean propaganda, this mountain is where Kim Il Sung, the country’s founder, fought against Japanese forces and launched the revolution. It is also claimed to be the birthplace of Kim Jong 2, although this is contested by external sources.
International Interest and Challenges
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the reopening, some experts remain questioning. Chad O'Carroll, CEO of the U.S.-based analysis firm Korea Risk Group, expressed doubts about the announcement, stating,
"I will believe it when I see it. For now, I am quite skeptical we will see any real movement in December."
Furthermore, the opening is not extended to American tourists. The U.S. State Department continues to restrict travel to North Korea due to the risk of arrest and detention. This warning follows incidents like the detention of University of Virginia student Otto Warmbier, who was held for 17 months before being returned to the U.S. in a coma in 2017.
Future Prospects
While Samjiyon is the only confirmed destination, there is speculation that other cities, including the capital Pyongyang, might soon welcome tourists. KTG Tours expressed optimism that Pyongyang and other places will eventually open, indicating a broader shift in North Korea's tourism strategy.
The reopening of Samjiyon represents one of the largest economic initiatives under Kim Jong Un’s regime. New infrastructure, including more than 10,000 hotel rooms near the Wonsan-Kalma international airport, is being developed to accommodate an anticipated international visitors.
This move signals a potential shift in North Korea's economic strategy, focusing on revitalizing international tourism and building ties with "friendly" nations. However, the full impact of this decision on the global tourism landscape remains to be seen as the world watches for further developments from the Hermit Kingdom.
For more Interested in International Affairs, stay tuned with "In Bulletin".
