North Korea set to reopen borders to foreign tourists in December

North Korea is reportedly preparing to reopen its borders to foreign tourists in December, following years of strict isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The move marks a significant step toward normalizing international exchanges after the country sealed itself off from the outside world in early 2020 to prevent the spread of the virus.

Background

Since the onset of the pandemic, North Korea implemented some of the most stringent border controls in the world, cutting off nearly all contact with the outside, including trade, travel, and diplomatic exchanges. The country has also been extremely secretive about the impact of COVID-19 within its borders, with limited information available on the actual situation.

Reopening Plans

According to reports, North Korea has been preparing to welcome foreign tourists starting in December 2024. This reopening is expected to be gradual, with initial tourist arrivals possibly being limited to certain groups or nationalities. The country is likely to prioritize tourists from China, its closest ally and largest trading partner, as well as select other countries with which it maintains friendly relations.

Tourism as a Revenue Source

Tourism has long been a controlled but significant source of revenue for North Korea, especially from Chinese visitors. The reopening could help the regime generate much-needed foreign currency, which has been severely depleted due to international sanctions and the prolonged closure of borders. The resumption of tourism could also signal Pyongyang’s intent to cautiously re-engage with the global community, albeit on its own terms.

Health and Safety Measures

Given North Korea’s strict handling of the pandemic, it is likely that the country will implement rigorous health and safety protocols for incoming tourists. These may include mandatory quarantine periods, extensive testing, and movement restrictions within the country. However, the exact measures have yet to be detailed publicly.

Political Implications

The reopening of North Korea’s borders to tourists could have broader implications for the country’s international relations. It may be a sign that Pyongyang is ready to cautiously re-enter the global stage and could potentially lead to increased diplomatic and economic interactions. However, North Korea’s relationships with countries like the United States and South Korea remain strained, and the reopening is unlikely to immediately change the broader geopolitical dynamics in the region.

Uncertainties

While the plans to reopen in December appear to be underway, North Korea’s highly unpredictable nature means that changes could occur at any time. The country could delay or modify the reopening plans based on its internal assessments of the global health situation or other strategic considerations.

Conclusion

The anticipated reopening of North Korea’s borders to foreign tourists in December 2024 marks a significant moment after years of isolation. While it presents opportunities for the regime to bolster its economy and cautiously re-engage with the world, much will depend on the specifics of the reopening process and the broader geopolitical environment.