North Korea has abruptly halted foreign tourism just weeks after reopening following a five-year COVID-19 closure. International tourists had recently entered the country, with travels to Rason permitted but not to the capital, Pyongyang. Tour operators have canceled upcoming trips without providing a clear reason for this sudden suspension.
In a sudden decision, North Korea has suspended foreign tourism shortly after reopening to international visitors for the first time in five years. This development follows the easing of COVID-19 restrictions that commenced in early 2020, with North Korea initially allowing Russian tourists in 2024 and subsequently opening its borders to travelers from nations such as Britain, Canada, France, and Germany in recent weeks.
Tourists were permitted to visit the eastern city of Rason, designated as a special economic zone, where they toured factories, shops, and monuments dedicated to late North Korean leaders. However, unlike their Russian counterparts, these international visitors were barred from entering Pyongyang, the capital city. Travel operators announced the cancellation of trips to North Korea until further notice, although the reasons for this abrupt closure remain unclear.
Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based operator, confirmed the situation by stating, “We have been informed that Rason is temporarily CLOSED. It’s an unprecedented situation.” Similar sentiments were echoed by Young Pioneer Tours in a Facebook post, advising those with plans for April and May to refrain from booking flights until further details are disclosed. Refund options for canceled tours are also being offered.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea welcomed hundreds of thousands of Chinese tourists, generating significant revenue in 2019. In the first few months of 2024, around 900 Russian tourists visited the country, highlighting the closeening ties between North Korea and Russia. Meanwhile, the United States maintains a travel ban on its citizens wishing to enter North Korea, imposed following the unfortunate death of American student Otto Warmbier in 2017.
North Korea’s recent suspension of foreign tourism raises concerns over the stability and future of its tourism sector. This abrupt halt follows a brief reopening period that allowed limited international access for the first time in several years. The reasons for this decision remain ambiguous, and operators continue to advise potential travelers on necessary precautions moving forward.
Original Source: www.paxnews.com
