North Korea to Reopen Borders to Tourists After Five-Year COVID-19 Closure

North Korea is poised to welcome back tourists to the northern city of Samjiyon for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to reports from two tour operators based in China. This development marks a significant milestone for the hermit kingdom, which had imposed stringent border closures for nearly five years.

Resumption of Tourism in Samjiyon

The long-awaited announcement comes as a breath of fresh air for the tourism industry, which has faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic. Visitors will be allowed to travel to the northern mountainous city of Samjiyon starting in December, as confirmed by BBC News, a CBS News partner.

Since the beginning of the pandemic in early 2020, North Korea had closed its borders to the outside world. However, there have been signs of a gradual easing of restrictions since the middle of 2023, with the city of Samjiyon being the first to reopen to foreign tourists. This decision signals North Korea's intent to revive its tourism sector and reestablish connections with the international community.

Potential for Expanding Tourist Access

While the reopening of Samjiyon is a significant step, there are indications that other cities, including Pyongyang, may follow suit. According to KTG Tours, a tour operator based in Shenyang, there are expectations for the reopening of additional cities, although official confirmation for these locations is still pending. Tourists from various countries, except for South Korea, are welcomed, while U.S. citizens are banned from traveling to North Korea.

Construction of a "Socialist Utopia"

North Korea is reportedly undertaking ambitious projects in Samjiyon, aiming to build a "socialist utopia" in the city. This endeavor includes the construction of new apartments, hotels, a ski resort, and commercial, cultural, and medical facilities, all designed to create a highly civilized mountain city. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been actively overseeing the development and has shown dissatisfaction with some senior officials' handling of the project.

Despite the announcement of the reopening and the ambitious plans for Samjiyon, there are skeptics who question the feasibility and reliability of the reopening. Chad O'Carroll, CEO of Korea Risk Group, expressed skepticism about the December timeline for the reopening, highlighting the need for cautious optimism until tangible progress is observed.

The potential reopening of Samjiyon to foreign tourists after nearly five years of border closures marks a significant development in North Korea's approach to tourism. While this move holds the promise of reviving the tourism industry and showcasing the country's developments, the skepticism surrounding the reopening timeline emphasizes the need for careful observation in the coming months.