Russia Spearheads Tourism Revival in North Korea

North Korea is set to reopen its borders to international tourists after nearly four years of closure due to the pandemic. The first group of tourists is expected in February, signaling a significant shift in the country's approach to global travel since January 22, 2020. Remarkably, Russian travelers, facilitated by Vladivostok-based tour agency Vostok Intur, are poised to be among the first to explore North Korea's attractions.

Vostok Intur's eagerly anticipated four-day excursion, commencing on February 9, includes a visit to Pyongyang and skiing at the Masikryong ski resort, billed as North Korea’s premier ski destination. Priced at $750 per person, the trip promises a blend of adventure and cultural immersion, with the agency’s website highlighting an "unforgettable journey" through North Korea's landscapes and culture.

Travelers must heed specific guidelines outlined by Vostok Intur. Prohibitions include carrying Western travel guides and books on North Korea, as they are banned from import. The absence of ATMs or credit card facilities in North Korea necessitates carrying cash in Euros, U.S. Dollars, or Chinese Yuan. Tourists should also prepare for thorough luggage checks and possible scrutiny of digital photographs by border guards. However, the agency reassures clients about the lack of travel restrictions to the U.S. or South Korea post-visit, despite the prevalent misconceptions.

The U.S. Government, in 2019, ceased visa-free entry for visitors to North Korea since 2011. Additionally, the Biden administration extended a ban on using U.S. passports for North Korea travel until August 31, 2024. This partnership between Russia and North Korea, indicated by the arrangement of this tour package, reflects the strengthening ties between the two nations, as evidenced by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un prioritizing Russian tourists over Chinese, previously the largest group of foreign visitors to North Korea.

Tourism in North Korea, a vital source of foreign currency pre-pandemic, saw an estimated 350,000 Chinese visitors in 2019, generating significant revenue. However, the absence of official tourism data makes accurate assessment challenging. The Pyongyang Tourism College, established in 2014, and the ongoing Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone project, reflect North Korea's commitment to reviving and expanding its tourism sector, which faced a considerable setback due to the pandemic.

The upcoming Russian tour to North Korea not only marks a pivotal moment in the post-pandemic resurgence of global tourism but also signifies a strategic diplomatic and economic maneuver. As North Korea navigates the complexities of international relations and economic sustainability, this move may pave the way for more diverse and extensive global engagement in the future.