North Korea is set to welcome foreign tourists once again after nearly five years of border closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The initial reopening will focus on Samjiyon, a city surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, according to China-based tourism agencies. Although Samjiyon is the only confirmed destination for now, experts anticipate that popular locations like Pyongyang could soon follow.
Shenyang’s KTG Tours shared on social media that they expect additional tourist sites to open up, reflecting a broader return to international tourism in North Korea. Beijing’s Koryo Tour agency also speculated that visitors might be permitted to explore more of the country later in December. However, South Korean citizens remain excluded from this tourism opportunity, and U.S. citizens are still barred due to ongoing political tensions.
Samjiyon, located near North Korea’s tallest peak, Mount Paektu, has been undergoing extensive redevelopment in recent years. The city’s reopening to tourists marks a significant shift in North Korea’s approach to welcoming foreigners after years of isolation.
In a sign of North Korea’s cautious but expanding outreach, the country has slowly begun inviting foreign visitors back. Earlier this year, Russian tourists were allowed entry, showcasing the warming ties between North Korea and Russia. With the December reopening, North Korea aims to reconnect with the world, but only under carefully controlled circumstances.
