North Korea to Reopen for Tourism This December 2024

North Korea is set to welcome foreign tourists once again after nearly four years of strict COVID-19 border controls. According to several tour operators, the reclusive nation will reopen its doors to international visitors in December 2024, with the northeastern city of Samjiyon being the first destination available for exploration.

Everything there is to know about the North Korea border reopening 

This reopening marks a significant step for North Korea as it prepares to reintroduce larger groups of foreign tourists to its isolated yet fascinating landscapes. Beijing-based Koryo Tours, one of the primary agencies facilitating travel to North Korea, confirmed the news on its website. The company announced that tourism to Samjiyon and potentially other regions of the country will resume by the end of the year.

Koryo Tours expressed excitement about this development, noting that they have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to announce the reopening of North Korean tourism. The company stated that their local partners are currently finalising itineraries and dates, which will be released in the coming weeks. Another travel agency, KTG Tours, echoed this announcement, also indicating that tourists will be able to visit Samjiyon this winter.

Tourism in Samjiyon

Samjiyon, located near the Chinese border, has been a focal point of North Korea’s recent development efforts. The city has been described by the government as a "socialist utopia" and a model for a highly-civilised mountain city. Over the past few years, significant investments have been made to transform Samjiyon, with new apartments, hotels, a ski resort, and various commercial, cultural, and medical facilities being built to attract tourists and showcase the country’s progress.

However, the Samjiyon project has not been without its challenges. In July 2024, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dismissed or demoted several senior officials for their "irresponsible" handling of the project, underscoring the importance the regime places on the city’s development.

The reopening of North Korea’s borders to international tourism follows the resumption of international flights in and out of the country last year. Earlier this year, a small group of Russian tourists was granted access to North Korea for a private tour in February, indicating the country’s cautious steps towards reopening.

Also read: 10 Things You Should Never Do If You’re Visiting North Korea

This December will mark the first time since 2020 that foreign tourists can explore North Korea, offering a rare opportunity to visit one of the world’s most enigmatic destinations. As details continue to emerge, travellers interested in visiting North Korea should keep an eye on announcements from Koryo Tours, KTG Tours, and other agencies.

Featured image credit: Wyco via Canva Pro