North Korea Suspends Tourism Just Weeks After Reopening

North Korea has unexpectedly suspended foreign tourism just weeks after reopening to international visitors for the first time in five years. The abrupt decision follows a brief period of allowing tourists, which included strict travel regulations. Tour operators have confirmed cancellations, and the reasons for the suspension remain unknown.

North Korea has unexpectedly ceased foreign tourism, just weeks after reopening to international visitors. This decision comes following the initial entry of Western tourists for the first time in five years, as reported by the BBC. Similar to numerous other nations, North Korea suspended tourism with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 but began easing restrictions in 2023.

The country initially allowed Russian tourists to enter in 2024, followed by visitors from countries such as Britain, Canada, France, and Germany to the eastern city of Rason last month. During these tours, guests were escorted to various sites, including shops and monuments, but were not permitted to visit the capital, Pyongyang.

Tour operators announced on Wednesday that all travel to North Korea is halted until further notice, though the reasons for this suspension remain unclear. Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based operator, stated, “We have been informed that Rason is temporarily CLOSED,” labeling the situation as unprecedented. Likewise, Young Pioneer Tours has advised customers not to book flights for April and May and confirmed that refunds are available for cancelled tours.

Before the pandemic, North Korea attracted hundreds of thousands of Chinese tourists, who contributed approximately $175 million to the economy in 2019, according to NK News. As North Korea strengthens its ties with Russia, data from the South Korean Unification Ministry indicates that nearly 900 Russian tourists visited in 2024. The United States had previously prohibited its citizens from traveling to North Korea in 2017 following the death of American student Otto Warmbier.

In summary, North Korea’s abrupt halt of tourism comes shortly after reopening to foreign visitors, raising questions about the country’s travel policies. The temporary closure affects international tourists, particularly those planning trips to Rason. Tour operators have confirmed the cancellation of tours, citing an unprecedented situation, all while North Korea continues to deepen ties with Russia amid historical travel restrictions imposed by the United States.

Original Source: www.paxnews.com