What's happened
North Korea plans to reopen its borders to international tourists in December 2024, specifically to the city of Samjiyon. This marks the first time since the pandemic began in 2020 that the country will welcome foreign visitors, following years of strict COVID-19 restrictions. Tour operators express excitement about the reopening.
What's behind the headline?
Impact on Tourism
- Resumption of Travel: The reopening will likely boost North Korea's tourism sector, which has been dormant for nearly five years.
- Focus on Samjiyon: This city is being marketed as a 'socialist utopia', showcasing new infrastructure and facilities.
Challenges Ahead
- Political Tensions: Ongoing geopolitical issues may deter Western tourists, impacting overall visitor numbers.
- Infrastructure Concerns: The region's harsh winter conditions and limited infrastructure could affect the quality of the tourist experience.
Future Prospects
- Chinese Tourists: Initial tourism is expected to be dominated by visitors from China and Russia, given the current political climate.
- Long-term Strategy: North Korea aims to leverage tourism as a means to generate revenue and improve its international image.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, North Korea's reopening is seen as a significant step after years of isolation, but experts warn that political tensions could hinder tourism. Simon Cockerell from Koryo Tours expressed optimism, 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.' Meanwhile, Business Insider UK highlights the unique experiences awaiting tourists, emphasizing the need for caution in interactions with locals. The South China Morning Post notes that while the reopening is a positive development, the country still faces challenges in restoring pre-pandemic tourism levels.
How we got here
North Korea closed its borders in early 2020 due to COVID-19, severely impacting its tourism sector. After years of isolation, the country is now set to welcome tourists again, starting with Samjiyon, a city near the Chinese border, which has been developed as a tourist destination.
Go deeper
- What should tourists know before visiting North Korea?
- How has the pandemic affected North Korean tourism?
- What are the attractions in Samjiyon?
Common question
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What to Expect from North Korea's Reopening for International Tourism?
North Korea is set to reopen its borders to international tourists in December 2024, specifically targeting the city of Samjiyon. This marks a significant shift after years of strict COVID-19 restrictions that kept foreign visitors away. As the tourism industry prepares for this reopening, many questions arise about what travelers can expect, safety measures, and the attractions awaiting them.
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What to Expect When North Korea Reopens for Tourism?
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When Will North Korea Reopen Its Borders for Tourism?
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More on these topics
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North Korea, officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia constituting the northern part of the Korean Peninsula.
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Samjiyŏn is a city in Ryanggang Province, North Korea. It takes its name from three lakes in the city, which are collectively known as the Samjiyŏn.
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.