After being closed for nearly five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea is set to reopen limited international tourism by the end of 2024. Tour companies Koryo Tours and KTG Tours announced that tour groups will be allowed to visit the mountainous city of Samjiyon, known as the birthplace of late North Korean leader Kim Jong Il.
Koryo Tours confirmed that tourism to Samjiyon will officially resume in December 2024, with further details to be finalized in the coming days. KTG Tours also mentioned potential openings in Pyongyang and other locations.
Samjiyon, near the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula, Mount Paektu, holds historic significance for Koreans. Previously popular among Chinese tourists, the reopening of tourism is expected to provide revenue for North Korea.
The historical symbolism of the mountain holds religious significance for North Koreans and the ruling Kim family. Although South Koreans are restricted from visiting the North, the reopening of tourism signals a step towards engaging with the international community once again.
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