North Korea suspends tourism less than a month after reopening
What's the story
North Korea has suddenly stopped foreign tours to its special tourist city of Rason, weeks after reopening the city for the first time since imposing a COVID-19 ban on arrivals in 2020. The decision was confirmed by two China-based travel agencies, Young Pioneer Tours and Koryo Tours. Young Pioneer Tours advised travelers planning trips in April and May against booking flights until further notice.
Agency confirmation
Travel agencies confirm suspension of tours to Rason
Young Pioneer Tours announced, "We have been advised by our partners in the DPRK that tours to Rason are currently paused." Meanwhile, Koryo Tours called the situation "unprecedented" and promised updates as more information comes to light. The reason for this sudden suspension remains unclear, with neither agency offering an explanation.
Unexplained decision
Speculation over North Korea's sudden tourism suspension
Before the February reopening, only Russian tourists were allowed limited group tours since September 2023. The first Western visitors began arriving in Rason, a city designated by the North as a special economic zone, on February 20. The entry, however, wasn't without restrictions and challenges. French travel blogger Pierre-Emile Biot described a limited payment system where tourists were issued debit cards that few businesses accepted. Most shops preferred cash transactions in yuan.
Visitor accounts
Tourists share experiences of visiting North Korea
In an interview, British tour leader Ben Weston likened visiting North Korea to a "school trip," with closely monitored movements and restrictions on leaving hotels without a guide. German travel influencer Luca Pferdmenges also shared his experiences with ordinary North Koreans during a pharmacy visit, where staff were surprised by foreign tourists' presence. He said nearly 80% of people still wear masks and bags were disinfected upon entry like during the COVID-19 pandemic.