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Tourist visits to North Korea restart after nearly five years, but is there interest?


North Korea is set to open its borders to international tourists at the end of the year after a closure of almost five years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The decision has been welcomed by travel agencies, but experts warn of potential challenges, including political tensions and the country’s harsh winters.

The first tourists are expected to visit Samjiyon, a city near the Chinese border, known for its new infrastructure and proximity to Mount Paektu, a revered peak in Korean history. Tour companies like Koryo Tours and KTG Tours are preparing for the resumption of tourism, although specific itineraries and dates are yet to be confirmed.

Experts predict that Chinese and Russian nationals will be the initial wave of tourists, as they have historically made up the majority of visitors to North Korea. These tourists could provide a much-needed boost to the country’s economy, potentially earning between $100m and $175m if Chinese arrivals return to pre-pandemic levels.

However, challenges remain, including concerns over North Korea’s supply of weapons to Russia and strained relations with China. The country’s strict tourism regulations, including guided tours and restrictions on movement, are expected to remain in place, ensuring close oversight of visitors.

Despite the reopening, experts caution against viewing it as a significant change in North Korea’s international relations. Instead, it is seen as a gradual effort to revive an industry that had previously existed for decades. As preparations for tourism continue, it remains to be seen how successful the reopening will be in attracting visitors to the reclusive nation.

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Photo credit www.theguardian.com

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