North Korea has reopened its borders to foreign tourists, specifically in the northeastern city of Rason, a special economic zone. After a prolonged closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic, travel operators are now welcoming visitors. While most of the country remains restricted, Rason was established in 1991 as a pilot for economic reforms. Tourists are required to obtain a visa and register with local authorities, with advisories warning of strict surveillance and ongoing shortages of essential resources.
Exploring North Korea’s Reopened Borders for Tourists
Are you intrigued by the prospect of visiting North Korea? This enigmatic nation, known for its strict dictatorship, has recently opened its doors to foreign tourists in a city located in the Northeast, close to the borders of China and Russia. After nearly five years of being largely inaccessible due to the Covid-19 pandemic, travel operators announced this exciting development on Thursday.
In early 2020, the North Korean government took drastic measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, effectively shutting down the country. During this period, the regime strengthened its border defenses to discourage citizens from returning illegally. However, trade with China has gradually resumed, official delegations have started to visit, and last year, Russian tourists were allowed to explore North Korea for the first time since the pandemic began.
Rason: A Special Economic Zone Awaits Travelers
Recently, two tour operators—one based in China and another in Spain—announced that foreign tourists can now visit Rason, a special economic zone in northeastern North Korea. According to Young Pioneer Tours, this area is officially open “as of today.” They further revealed that plans are in place to welcome both Chinese and international travelers to this unique destination.
Before the pandemic, tourism in North Korea was already limited, with the majority of visitors being Chinese nationals. Reports suggest that only about 5,000 Western tourists explored the country annually, with an estimated 350,000 travelers entering via plane or train from China.
At present, however, most of the country remains off-limits to tourists, as confirmed by Koryo Tours, a travel agency based in Beijing. They noted that they have yet to receive information on itineraries or costs for visits to Rason, nor do they know how many visitors will be permitted access. Established as North Korea’s first special economic zone in 1991, Rason has served as a testing ground for economic reforms.
While there are no official restrictions on entering North Korea, obtaining a visa is necessary. Visitors must also register with the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs if their stay exceeds 24 hours. Canadian government advisories highlight the strict surveillance of travelers, accommodations, and communications, reminding potential visitors that the country is facing dire shortages of food, electricity, and clean water, leading to a lack of privacy protection.