The Hermit Kingdom Opens Up: North Korea to Welcome Tourists Once Again
After five long years of strict isolation, North Korea is finally preparing to reopen its borders to tourists. This landmark decision, announced in August 2024, signals a potential shift in the notoriously reclusive nation’s approach to the outside world.
The COVID-19 pandemic led North Korea to implement stringent border controls in early 2020, effectively closing itself off from international travel. Even North Korean citizens found themselves unable to return home for a significant period. While international flights gradually resumed in late 2023, allowing some citizens to return, tourism remained a distant dream.
Now, whispers of change are in the air. Beijing-based tour operator “Koryo Tours” has revealed that they have received confirmation from their North Korean partners about the official resumption of tourist trips to Samjiyon, a scenic town nestled near the Chinese border. While exact dates are yet to be finalized, the announcement suggests that tours could begin as early as December 2024.
Samjiyon holds a special significance in North Korean lore, serving as the gateway to Mount Paektu, a sacred volcano revered as the supposed birthplace of former leader Kim Jong-il. The region’s natural beauty and cultural importance make it a strategic choice for North Korea’s reintroduction to tourism.
Adding to the growing anticipation, another China-based tour operator, “KTG Tours,” has also indicated that travel to Samjiyon will be possible this winter. While both companies acknowledge that only Samjiyon has been officially confirmed for tourist access, there is a strong belief that other destinations, including the capital city of Pyongyang, may soon follow suit.
This reopening marks a significant development for North Korea, a country often shrouded in mystery and intrigue. While the extent of access and the experience awaiting tourists remain to be seen, the decision to welcome foreigners once again offers a glimmer of hope for greater engagement with the global community.
