The skyline of Pyongyang, North Korea. Travel Pulse
After years of isolation, North Korea is set to welcome tourists again. Starting in December 2024, visitors will be able to explore the northeastern city of Samjiyon. This move marks the beginning of a gradual easing of North Korea's strict tourism restrictions, according to reports from tour operators.
Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based travel agency, recently announced that tourism will resume in Samjiyon and potentially expand to other parts of the country. The agency's website confirmed that this decision comes after a long hiatus, with international tourism halted since 2020. "We are thrilled to announce the reopening of North Korean tourism after over four years of waiting," Koryo Tours stated.
Another travel agency, KTG Tours, has also confirmed that Samjiyon will be open to tourists this winter. This decision follows the resumption of international flights to and from North Korea last year. In February, a small group of Russian tourists visited North Korea, and in June, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited as well.
Samjiyon is described as a "socialist utopia" and a model city with new apartments, hotels, and a ski resort. It is located near Mount Paektu, the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula and an area considered sacred in Korean culture. The city is known for its modern facilities and is positioned close to the Chinese border.
Tourists can expect to see a city that blends modernity with cultural significance. Samjiyon's development includes not only residential and commercial spaces but also cultural and medical facilities, making it a comprehensive destination for visitors. As the opening approaches, Koryo Tours expects to finalize itineraries and dates in collaboration with their North Korean partners.
This reopening signals a potential shift in North Korea's approach to international tourism. With the country's borders gradually reopening, there is hope that this move will pave the way for more expansive tourism options in the future. For now, travellers interested in visiting will have the opportunity to experience a unique blend of North Korean culture and modern development.
