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2mo ago

North Korea Reopens Borders to Foreign Tourists After Five-Year Closure

The isolated nation cautiously resumes tourism, starting with limited tours to the Rason Special Economic Zone.

Young Pioneer Tours was among the first foreign tour groups to visit North Korea since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Image
a man standing in front of a sign

Overview

  • North Korea reopened to foreign tourists on February 20, 2025, after closing its borders in January 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Initial tours are limited to the Rason Special Economic Zone, with itineraries including visits to schools, factories, and cultural sites.
  • Tour operators report high demand for the first trips, with Western tourists leading the return, while Chinese groups are set to follow shortly.
  • COVID-19 precautions remain in place, including mask mandates, temperature checks, and restrictions on visiting local markets.
  • Observers suggest the reopening is part of efforts to generate revenue and reshape North Korea’s international image.