North Korea is set to reopen its borders to international tourists in December 2024, starting with the northeastern city of Samjiyon, with the possibility of expanding access to other regions. This reopening marks the first major step since 2020, following years of strict COVID-19 border controls that had severely restricted international travel to the country.
Beijing-based Koryo Tours and KTG Tours have confirmed the return of tourism, with specific itineraries and travel dates expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
International flights to and from North Korea resumed last year, and a small group of Russian tourists visited the country in February. Additionally, foreign dignitaries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, have made recent visits to North Korea.
Samjiyon, which has been undergoing development as a “socialist utopia,” now features new apartments, hotels, a ski resort, and various other facilities. Recent leadership changes have been implemented to address issues related to this project.