North Korea is officially reopening its borders to Western tourists after nearly five years of closure, as the country becomes one of the last to welcome international visitors following the COVID-19 pandemic. The highly anticipated trips are being arranged by Koryo Tours, a leading tour operator specializing in travel to the isolated state.
Simon Cockerell, general manager of Koryo Tours, described the experience of visiting North Korea as “like a school trip” during an interview with The Independent daily travel podcast. He explained that all activities are heavily guided, with itineraries carefully planned by the company and their North Korean partners. “You don’t really have to do much thinking for yourself. Thinking for yourself is not hugely encouraged in North Korea anyway,” Cockerell noted.
The first Koryo Tours departure to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) since the border closure in January 2020 is scheduled for Thursday, February 20, and has already sold out due to high demand from adventurers eager to explore one of the world’s most secretive regimes. While North Korea closed its borders to Western tourists during the pandemic, the Rason Special Economic Area, located in the northeastern region near China and Russia, is the first area to reopen for international travelers.
Cockerell emphasized that the region is one of the more economically developed in North Korea, with fishing and farming villages, as well as a relatively improved infrastructure compared to other areas in the country. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore local landmarks such as the Rason Taekwondo School and Ryongyson Brewery, and even the Golden Triangle Bank, where it’s theoretically possible to open a North Korean bank account. However, those interested in visiting will need to navigate certain logistical challenges. For instance, UK travelers must ensure they obtain a double-entry visa for China, as Rason is accessible only by land through China.
For British passport holders and other visitors, Koryo Tours offers a mandatory one-hour briefing on the country’s strict rules and regulations, which include severe penalties for actions deemed disrespectful to the North Korean government or leadership. Although the Foreign Office advises against travel to the DPRK due to potential risks, Koryo Tours assures its clients of a safe travel experience, supported by regular consultations with authorities and international agencies.
Additionally, there may be a rare opportunity for some visitors to access the internet at a hotel in Rason, although internet access in North Korea remains highly restricted. Koryo Tours is exploring ways to allow tourists to use the hotel’s internet, but devices must undergo a lengthy setup process, and connections are likely to be unstable.
With trips to North Korea starting in March, Koryo Tours plans to run two trips per month, with the longest tour lasting four nights at a cost of €705 (£587). While visiting North Korea is undoubtedly a unique and eye-opening experience, it remains an experience that requires careful consideration and preparation.
