North Korea Suspends Tourism Abruptly After Recent Reopening

North Korea has suddenly halted foreign tourism weeks after reopening to international visitors. The closure follows a prolonged pause due to COVID-19, with no specific reasons provided. Travel operators have confirmed the cancellations, leaving the future of North Korean tourism uncertain as relations with Russia deepen, while U.S. citizens remain banned from visiting.

North Korea has abruptly ceased foreign tourism, just weeks after permitting international visitors for the first time in five years. This decision follows a protracted period during which the country suspended all tourism due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in early 2020. The recent reopening included Russian tourists in 2024, with a broader influx of visitors from various countries allowed into the economic zone of Rason as of last month.

During their visits, tourists were escorted on guided trips to inspect local factories, shops, and monuments dedicated to influential North Korean leaders; however, access to the capital, Pyongyang, remained restricted. Tour operators have announced a cancellation of all travel to North Korea until further notice, with no clear explanation for the sudden halt or the expected duration of the suspension.

Koryo Tours, based in Beijing, stated, “We have been informed that Rason is temporarily CLOSED,” marking an unprecedented interruption in tourism. Additionally, Young Pioneer Tours, a China-based operator, suggested customers reconsider travel plans for April and May, noting that refunds would be available for cancelled tours.

The tourism sector previously thrived in North Korea, particularly with visitors from China, who contributed approximately $175 million in revenue during 2019. Furthermore, North Korea has been strengthening its connections with Russia, evidenced by the nearly 900 Russian tourists who traveled to the country in 2024. Meanwhile, the United States has prohibited its citizens from traveling to North Korea since 2017, following the tragic case of American student Otto Warmbier.

In summary, North Korea’s abrupt suspension of foreign tourism has left travel operators and prospective tourists in uncertainty. Initially welcoming visitors after a long hiatus, the government’s sudden reversal highlights the unpredictability of travel policies within the country. While North Korea continues to strengthen ties with Russia, restrictions on tourist access remain a significant challenge for the industry, particularly after prior successes in attracting visitors from neighboring China.

Original Source: www.paxnews.com