North Korea Reopening to Foreign Tourists

SOURCE www.newsweek.com
North Korea is taking steps to reopen to foreign tourists after five years of closed borders due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Western travel agencies are now offering guided tours to the special economic zone of Rason, providing visitors with unique experiences and insights into the country's limited market-driven reforms.

Key Points

  • North Korea closed its borders due to COVID-19 five years ago
  • Western travel agencies Koryo Tours and Young Pioneer Tours are now offering guided tours to Rason
  • Rason is a special economic zone with unique market-driven reforms
  • Visitors must join government-approved guided tours with strict rules

Pros

  • Revival of limited tourism industry in North Korea
  • Reestablishment of economic ties with key partners like China and Russia
  • Potential easing of self-imposed isolation

Cons

  • Strict regulations for visitors, including restrictions on photography, speech, and interactions with locals
  • Risk of political tensions or misunderstandings during tours