After almost five years of closure, North Korea is preparing to partially reopen its borders to foreign tourists next December. This decision marks an important turning point for the country, long isolated from the rest of the world. Let's find out what this opening up means, and what opportunities it offers to travelers eager to discover this mysterious and inaccessible territory.
Travel as early as December 2024
From December 2024, tourists will once again be able to visit certain regions of North Korea, including the city of Samjiyon. Located close to the northern border with China, Samjiyon serves as a gateway for those wishing to explore the region. Mount Paektu. This location is particularly symbolic, as it is often referred to in official accounts as the birthplace of the late leader Kim Jong-il.
Developments in Samjiyon
In recent years, Samjiyon has benefited from significant investmentswith new apartments, hotels and even a ski resort. The North Korean government, under the leadership of Kim Jong-un, has implemented various projects to revitalize the region and attract more international visitors.
Beyond Samjiyon
Although the reopening officially concerns Samjiyon, it is likely that other top tourist destinations such as Pyongyang can also welcome visitors. This would offer more options for those wishing to explore the different facets of the country.
Gradual return of international flights
Since the second half of 2023, signs of reopening were already visible, with the resumption of international flights to Beijing and Vladivostok. Although these flights were mainly used to return North Korean citizens stranded abroad, they laid the foundations for a broader recovery in international tourism.
First tourists since the Covid-19 pandemic
In February 2024, a first group of Russian tourists had the opportunity to visit North Koreamarking an important step in the reopening process. The trip took place against a backdrop of strengthening ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.
Before the pandemic, North Korea welcomed around 5,000 Western tourists a year.Chinese tourism generates substantial revenues, particularly from Chinese visitors. In 2019, Chinese tourism is estimated to have earned the country around US$175 million. The reopening could therefore represent a breath of fresh air for North Korea's ailing economy.
- Mount Paektu and its natural attractions
- The newly renovated ski resort at Samjiyon
- Modern hotels and infrastructures built for tourists
Practical tips for future visitors
Travelling to North Korea requires meticulous preparation and a close cooperation with specialist travel agencies. Here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:
- Book with a reputable agency such as Koryo Tours or KTG Tours
- Find out about visa formalities well in advance
- Prepare a list of sites to visit, prioritizing Samjiyon and potentially Pyongyang
Travel insurance
Given the particularities of the medical system and local restrictions, it is strongly recommended that you take out travel insurance. In the event of health problems or accidents, this can be very useful.
North Korea imposes strict rules on visitors. It is crucial to follow the instructions given by the guides and to conform to local customs to avoid any inconvenience.
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