North Korea is one of the most secretive countries in the world, and tourism to the country has long been a controversial subject. The country has been isolated from the rest of the world for decades, and its people are subject to strict government control. Despite this, North Korea does offer limited tourism opportunities for visitors who are willing to jump through some hoops.
Getting into North Korea
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that North Korea is not an easy country to visit. The government strictly controls who is allowed in and out of the country.
For most tourists, the only way to visit North Korea is by booking a tour through one of several approved travel agencies. These tours are typically very structured and tightly controlled by government minders.
What Can You See?
Most tours focus on Pyongyang, the capital city of North Korea. Visitors can expect to see a number of famous landmarks like the Juche Tower, which stands over 170 meters tall and offers incredible views of the city. Other popular tourist spots include the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, which houses statues of former leaders Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il.
Restrictions on Tourism
Despite offering tours for tourists, North Korea still places significant restrictions on what visitors can see and do while in the country. Visitors are not allowed to travel outside Pyongyang without special permission from their minders. They are also not allowed to take pictures of anything deemed sensitive or controversial by the government.
Is Tourism Open in North Korea?
In 2020, North Korea closed its borders due to concerns over COVID-19. As a result, tourism has been suspended until further notice. However, even before this closure, tourism was limited due to ongoing tensions between North Korea and other countries.
While it is technically possible for tourists to visit North Korea under certain conditions, it’s important to understand that it is not a typical tourist destination. Visitors must be prepared to follow strict rules and regulations, and they may not be able to see everything they want to see. Additionally, the political situation in North Korea can change rapidly, so visitors should stay informed about any updates or changes before traveling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tourism in North Korea is possible but limited. Visitors must book tours through approved travel agencies and follow strict rules and regulations while in the country.
While tourism was suspended in 2020 due to COVID-19, it remains to be seen when or if tours will resume in the future. For those interested in visiting North Korea, it’s important to stay informed about any updates or changes regarding travel restrictions and safety concerns.