By The Nexus Gazette.
15th August, 2024.
In a significant shift, North Korea is preparing to partially reopen its borders to international tourists after nearly five years of closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This move marks a potential new chapter for the isolated nation’s tourism sector, with Samjiyon, a picturesque city in the northern part of the country, set to welcome visitors.
North Korea closed its borders in early 2020 as the Covid-19 pandemic swept across the globe. This drastic measure was part of the country’s stringent approach to managing the virus and protecting its population from an outbreak.
Restrictions began to ease in mid-2023, but the prolonged closure had significant repercussions. North Korea faced severe food shortages and continued to grapple with the effects of international sanctions, largely driven by its nuclear program.
Samjiyon, located at the base of Mount Paektu, North Korea’s highest peak, is renowned for its winter attractions and breathtaking scenery. The city has been undergoing extensive redevelopment in anticipation of an influx of tourists.
The North Korean government has announced plans to rebuild Samjiyon’s airport, transform a former military ski base into a luxury resort, and develop new railways and hotels to accommodate foreign visitors. These developments are part of a broader effort to enhance the city’s appeal as a tourist destination.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed a desire to “revitalize international tourism,” specifically targeting visitors from “friendly” nations. This initiative reflects a strategic effort to boost the country’s economy and strengthen ties with select international partners.
Despite the planned reopening, there is considerable skepticism about the extent to which North Korea can successfully resume tourism. Concerns about the implementation of new infrastructure and the actual accessibility for foreign tourists remain prevalent.If successful, the reopening could attract tourists from Russia and China, bridging the gap between North Korea and its neighboring countries through cultural exchange and tourism.
The partial reopening of North Korea to tourism represents a significant development in the nation’s approach to international engagement. As Samjiyon prepares to welcome visitors, the world watches to see how North Korea navigates this new phase in its relationship with global travelers.
Resources:
1.https://www.yahoo.com/news/north-korea-reopen-tourists-122427056.html
2.https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg3wzkx8k8o
3.https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/world/2024-08-15-north-korea-to-reopen-for-tourism-after-five-years/