North Korea has suspended foreign tourism just weeks after reopening. This decision follows the arrival of Western tourists for the first time in five years. Travel operators have confirmed cancellations, citing the closure of the eastern city Rason. The reasons for this abrupt halt are currently unclear, with implications for future tourism and international relations.
North Korea has unexpectedly ceased foreign tourism, a mere few weeks after resuming it. This sudden decision follows the first arrival of Western tourists to the country in five years, as reported by the BBC. Tourism to North Korea was restricted at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 but resumed to some extent in 2023, welcoming Russian tourists earlier this year.
Just last month, tourists from various countries, including Britain, Canada, France, and Germany, were permitted to visit the eastern city of Rason, designated as a special economic zone by the North Korean government. During their visit, tourists were guided through local sites, factories, and memorials of former leaders, although they were not permitted to travel to the capital, Pyongyang.
Tour operators announced on March 5 that all travel to North Korea is cancelled until further notice, leaving the duration of this suspension uncertain. Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based operator, stated, “We have been informed that Rason is temporarily CLOSED. It’s an unprecedented situation.” Meanwhile, Young Pioneer Tours advised potential travelers to avoid making bookings for April and May and assured that refunds are available for any cancelled tours.
Historically, prior to COVID-19, North Korea welcomed hundreds of thousands of Chinese tourists, generating approximately $175 million in revenue in 2019, according to NK News. Additionally, reports indicate that North Korea has been strengthening ties with Russia, with nearly 900 Russian tourists visiting the country in 2024, as noted by the South Korean Unification Ministry. It is worth noting that in 2017, the United States prohibited its citizens from traveling to North Korea following the tragic death of American student Otto Warmbier.
In summary, North Korea’s abrupt halt on foreign tourism shortly after reopening raises concerns among travel operators and prospective visitors. Despite recent advancements in tourism, including invitations to Western tourists, the sudden cancellation highlights the unpredictable nature of policies in the secluded nation. The evolving relationship between North Korea and Russia continues to influence tourism dynamics, which remains under scrutiny as the situation unfolds.
Original Source: www.paxnews.com
