In a groundbreaking announcement, Young Pioneer Tours (YPT) has revealed that tours to North Korea will resume in February 2025 after nearly five years of closure. The news, first reported by
NK News marks a significant step in the country’s gradual reopening to the world.
The first research trip is scheduled to enter the Rason Special Economic Zone on February 10th, departing from Yanji, China. Following this, the first group tour will commence on February 16th, coinciding with the celebrations for Kim Jong Il’s birthday, a major national holiday.
What We Know About the Tours
The initial group tours will span four days and cost just €645, making them an affordable option for adventurous travelers eager to experience one of the world’s most enigmatic destinations. YPT’s itinerary focuses on Rason, a special economic zone near the Chinese and Russian borders. This region has long been a hub for trade and international cooperation, offering a unique perspective on North Korea’s economic ambitions. Rason’s inclusion in the reopening is somewhat unexpected. Many North Korea watchers had anticipated that Sinuiju, a border city adjacent to Dandong, China, would be the first
area to welcome foreign tourists. However, Rason’s strategic location and history as a special economic zone make it a fitting choice for the resumption of tourism.
Young Pioneer Tours: Leading the Way
Young Pioneer Tours has been at the forefront of tourism to North Korea for well over a decade. Known for their affordable and accessible tours, YPT has introduced thousands of travelers to the DPRK’s unique culture, history, and landscapes. Their team of experienced guides ensures a safe and informative experience, with itineraries designed to highlight the country’s lesser-known aspects.
YPT’s commitment to responsible tourism is evident in their approach to the upcoming trips. By beginning with a research tour, they aim to ensure that all logistics are in place and that the
experience meets the high standards expected by their clients. This careful planning underscores their dedication to promoting meaningful cultural exchanges while adhering to local regulations.
The Long Wait: North Korea’s Tourism Hiatus
North Korea’s borders have been closed to international tourism since early 2020, following the outbreak of COVID-19. The country implemented some of the world’s strictest pandemic measures, including a complete shutdown of its borders. For nearly five years, the DPRK has been inaccessible to foreign visitors, leaving many wondering when and how it would reopen. This extended hiatus has been challenging for both the North Korean tourism industry and the international operators who
specialize in trips to the country. However, the announcement of these new tours signals a cautious but optimistic return to normalcy. It also reflects North Korea’s willingness to re-engage with the outside world, albeit on its own terms.
Why Rason?
Rason’s selection as the first area to reopen is a strategic decision. As a special economic zone, Rason has historically served as a gateway for trade and international collaboration. Its proximity to China and Russia makes it a logical choice for testing the waters of renewed tourism.
Visitors to Rason can expect a mix of economic and cultural experiences. The region is known for its bustling markets, where Chinese, Russian, and North Korean goods are traded. Tourists may also visit factories, ports, and other facilities that showcase the DPRK’s economic aspirations. These insights provide a rare glimpse into the country’s development efforts and its interactions with neighboring states.
A Positive Step Forward
The resumption of tours to North Korea is a positive development for both the country and international travelers. For North Korea, reopening its borders represents an opportunity to boost its economy and improve its global image. For tourists, it offers a chance to experience a nation that remains largely misunderstood and shrouded in mystery.
YPT’s tours are designed to challenge preconceived notions and foster greater understanding. By focusing on Rason, these trips will highlight a side of North Korea that few outsiders have seen, emphasizing the country’s resilience and its efforts to adapt to a changing world.
Looking Ahead
While the initial tours are limited to Rason, the reopening raises hopes for expanded access to other parts of the DPRK in the near future. Cities like Pyongyang, Kaesong, and Sinuiju may soon welcome tourists once again, offering further opportunities for cultural exchange and exploration.
For now, the February tours represent a significant milestone. They mark the first steps in North Korea’s journey back to normalcy and provide a unique opportunity for travelers to be part of history. As YPT prepares to lead the way, one thing is clear: the allure of the DPRK remains as strong as ever, and the world is eager to rediscover its secrets.