North Korea Suspends Tourism Just Weeks After Reopening to Foreign Visitors

North Korea has suspended foreign tourism just weeks after reopening to international visitors. This pause comes following a period of easing restrictions that began in 2023 and includes the recent influx of Western tourists into the country. Tour operators report that travel is halted until further notice, with unclear reasons behind the decision.

North Korea has unexpectedly suspended foreign tourism, mere weeks after the country reopened its borders to international visitors. This decision follows the recent entry of Western tourists for the first time in five years, as reported by the BBC. Foreign tourism had been halted during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, with restrictions gradually easing in 2023.

The reopening initially permitted Russian tourists in 2024, and in February 2024, tourists from various countries, including Britain, Canada, France, and Germany, were allowed to visit the special economic zone in Rason. However, these visitors were restricted from traveling to the capital, Pyongyang. Tour operators announced on March 5 that all travel to North Korea is now cancelled until further notice, leaving the duration of this suspension uncertain.

Koryo Tours, based in Beijing, stated, “We have been informed that Rason is temporarily CLOSED. It’s an unprecedented situation.” Similarly, Young Pioneer Tours advised potential travelers to avoid booking flights for upcoming tours until further updates, assuring that refunds would be available for any cancelled trips. Prior to the pandemic, the country attracted hundreds of thousands of Chinese tourists, generating substantial revenue.

In a notable development, North Korea has been strengthening its associations with Russia. As cited by South Korean sources, approximately 900 Russian tourists visited North Korea in 2024. It is also important to note that travel restrictions for U.S. citizens to North Korea were implemented in 2017, following the tragic incident involving American student Otto Warmbier.

In summary, North Korea’s abrupt suspension of foreign tourism highlights ongoing uncertainties surrounding international travel to the isolated nation. Following an initial reopening after COVID-19 restrictions, the cancellation of tours has raised questions regarding the future of tourism in North Korea, as well as the nation’s evolving diplomatic relationships. Tour operators have echoed the need for caution among prospective travelers amid this unprecedented situation.

Original Source: www.paxnews.com