by Zarafshan Shiraz

For the first time in five years, North Korea has reopened its borders to international tourists, marking a pivotal shift in the country’s approach to global travel. This move signals Pyongyang’s intent to reinvigorate its tourism sector, which has historically served as a crucial source of foreign currency. As global travelers begin exploring the possibility of visiting one of the most secretive nations in the world, questions arise regarding the implications of this decision and what it means for the future of travel to North Korea.

A Controlled Reopening

North Korea has taken a cautious approach to reopening its borders, allowing a select group of 13 international tourists to visit the Rason Special Economic Zone from February 20 to 24, 2025. The tour was organized by Koryo Tours, a travel agency specializing in trips to the hermit kingdom, and included visits to factories, schools, and monuments.

This marks a significant shift from North Korea’s previous stance, where the country imposed strict COVID-19-related border closures in early 2020. While it has gradually allowed the return of foreign diplomats and limited business travel, this is the first instance of international leisure tourism since the pandemic began.

Economic Motivations Behind Reopening

Tourism has long been a key revenue stream for North Korea, particularly as it faces ongoing international sanctions. Before the pandemic, the country welcomed approximately 100,000 tourists annually, with the vast majority coming from China. By reopening its doors, North Korea is looking to attract foreign currency and ease its economic struggles.

The nation’s leadership has also shown a renewed interest in developing its tourism infrastructure. The government has invested heavily in projects such as the Wonsan-Kalma Beach Resort, a large-scale coastal resort designed to accommodate international visitors. Tour operators have begun offering travel packages to this resort, indicating a broader push to revive the industry.

What Tourists Can Expect

Traveling to North Korea remains a highly regulated experience, with visitors required to follow strict guidelines. The government-appointed guides control tourist itineraries, ensuring that visitors only see pre-approved sites. Interaction with locals is limited, and photography restrictions remain firmly in place.

Despite these limitations, those who have visited North Korea in the past often describe the experience as unique and eye-opening. The country offers breathtaking natural landscapes, meticulously maintained monuments, and a rare glimpse into one of the world’s most closed-off societies.

However, North Korea’s rigid tourism policies mean that travelers must exercise caution. The country enforces strict laws against unauthorized communication, and tourists are often barred from bringing certain electronic devices. Additionally, all financial transactions are conducted in foreign currencies, such as euros, U.S. dollars, or Chinese yuan, as tourists are not permitted to use North Korean won.

Travel Risks and Advisory Warnings

While North Korea’s reopening may be an exciting opportunity for adventurous travelers, it is not without risks. Many governments, including the United States and Canada, continue to issue travel advisories warning against visits to the country due to safety concerns and the risk of arbitrary detention.

The recent reopening has led to renewed discussions about whether tourism to North Korea indirectly supports the regime. Critics argue that revenue generated from foreign visitors ultimately benefits the North Korean government rather than its citizens. Ethical considerations remain a significant factor for potential travelers weighing their decision to visit.

The Future of Tourism in North Korea

With the country taking its first steps toward reopening, many are wondering what the future of North Korean tourism will look like. If the initial phase proves successful, the government may further expand tourism offerings, potentially reopening more regions of the country to visitors.

However, many factors will determine the long-term viability of North Korea’s tourism sector, including diplomatic relations, geopolitical tensions, and international sanctions. While the country has shown a willingness to welcome foreign tourists, its continued isolation from much of the global community may hinder large-scale growth in the sector.

Conclusion

North Korea’s decision to allow international tourists once again marks a notable shift in its approach to global travel. While the reopening presents a rare opportunity for travelers to explore one of the most secretive nations in the world, it also comes with considerable risks and ethical concerns. As the country navigates its post-pandemic tourism landscape, the experiences of early visitors will play a crucial role in shaping North Korea’s tourism industry in the years to come.