After closing its borders to foreign visitors in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea recently decided to reopen its doors to tourists. However, just two weeks after the first organized groups set foot in the country, authorities have once again suspended entry for foreigners.

First tourists after five years

The first group to visit North Korea after the long hiatus consisted of Russian tourists, who were allowed to enter the country in 2024. This marked the first sign of easing restrictions. After that, Koryo Tours, a travel agency specializing in trips to this country since 1993, received permission to organize visits for Western tourists in February 2025. Travelers had the opportunity to explore Rason, a special economic zone in the northeast, near the Russian and Chinese borders.

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Unexpected border closure

Despite the positive start, Pyongyang authorities decided to close the borders once again. The news came just days after organizers had informed the public that foreign runners would be able to participate in the Pyongyang International Marathon, scheduled for April 6. Given the new developments, it remains uncertain whether the event will remain open to international participants.

Rules for tourists in North Korea

Travel to North Korea is always under strict government control. Visitors can only enter the country through organized tours, and guides are responsible for accompanying them at all times. Regulations require tourists to obtain permission before taking photographs, and certain content and devices are prohibited. Upon entry, mobile phones must be registered, GPS devices are held at the border until departure. Foreign media deemed undesirable is not allowed.

North Korean currency cannot be imported or exported. Instead, transactions are conducted in foreign currencies such as the US dollar and the euro, using official exchange rates.

The future of travel to North Korea

It is currently unknown when tourist visits to the country will resume or whether planned events like the marathon will remain open to foreign participants. Those interested can follow official updates through the Koryo Tours website, which maintains regular communication with North Korean partners and provides up-to-date information.

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