North Korea has halted tourism shortly after reopening to foreign visitors post-COVID. The recent travel suspension affects international tourists who had begun visiting the country, particularly in Rason, with unknown reasons for this closure. Previous restrictions on American citizens remain enforced, reflecting ongoing tensions surrounding international relations and tourism.
North Korea has unexpectedly ceased foreign tourism, just weeks following its reopening to visitors. This abrupt decision follows the return of Western tourists to the country for the first time in five years, according to reports from the BBC. Like many nations, North Korea shut down tourism at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 but began easing restrictions in 2023.
Initially, North Korea reopened its borders to Russian tourists in 2024. In recent months, visitors from various countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Germany, were welcomed into Rason, a designated special economic zone. However, unlike their Russian counterparts, these international tourists were prohibited from visiting the capital, Pyongyang, and instead toured designated sites, such as factories and monuments dedicated to former leaders.
Tour operators announced that travel to North Korea has been cancelled indefinitely. The reasons behind the closure remain unclear, and there is uncertainty regarding its duration. Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based operator, stated, “We have been informed that Rason is temporarily CLOSED.” Similarly, Young Pioneer Tours advised customers against booking flights in the near future and confirmed that refunds will be provided for cancelled trips.
Prior to the pandemic, North Korea attracted numerous Chinese tourists, who contributed approximately $175 million to the local economy in 2019. Reports indicate that relations between North Korea and Russia have strengthened over time, with nearly 900 Russian tourists visiting in 2024, according to data from the Korean Unification Ministry.
Due to previous incidents, the United States has prohibited its citizens from visiting North Korea since 2017, following the tragic death of American student Otto Warmbier.
In summary, North Korea’s abrupt decision to revoke tourism highlights ongoing uncertainties within the nation, particularly following its recent reemergence as a tourist destination. The sudden halt follows a brief period of openness, raising questions about the country’s stability and future tourism prospects. It also underscores the geopolitical implications of North Korea’s evolving relationships with countries such as Russia and the United States.
Original Source: www.paxnews.com
