When most of us think of North Korea, we think of movies like The Interview, or the grim news reports about the country’s repressive regime. But travel to North Korea is not as impossible for Malaysians as you might think. In fact, many countries have open working relationships with North Korea, with Malaysian travel to the country now feasible for some.
Given the media attention and the current political context, it’s understandable that many Malaysians are aware of potential security risks when dealing with North Korea. In fact, the US Department of State warns Malaysians against any non-essential travel to North Korea. Thus, it’s important to consider the risks associated with travel to North Korea before making any travel plans.
However, despite the security concerns, it is possible for Malaysians citizens to travel to North Korea. An increasing number of companies and agencies, including Koryo Group, are organising trips to the “Hermit Kingdom”. The company offers tours to some of the most well-known sites in the country, including the Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery, the bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, and the Taedong Beer Festival. They also have an extensive list of activities, from art classes to karaoke, that allow visitors to experience the culture and learn about North Korea’s history.
In addition to travel agencies, there are other avenues for Malaysians to visit North Korea. The North Korean government operates an official tourist programme for foreigners wanting to visit. However, this programme must be arranged in advance, which can be a lengthy process. Furthermore, visitors will have to adhere to a strict schedule set out by the North Korean government. As such, it’s important to bear in mind that the experience of travelling to North Korea may be highly controlled, with little room to venture outside of the set itinerary.
Although there is a possibility for Malaysians to travel to North Korea, there are still a number of restrictions and regulations in place. Foreigners are required to bring in their passports, along with a valid visa. Additionally, foreigners may only enter the country through specific entry points and must return to the same point of exit. Furthermore, tourists are required to travel in groups and their movements are closely monitored. As such, it’s advisable for tourists to familiarise themselves with North Korean customs and laws before visiting the country.
Ultimately, whether or not Malaysians should travel to North Korea is a personal decision. While the US Department of State and other organisations have advised against doing so, some travellers have had positive experiences travelling to the country. Thus, it’s important for each person to weigh the security concerns associated with the country against the potential rewards before making a decision.
Human Rights
The current circumstances in North Korea, in terms of its human rights record, are a major cause for concern. The UN recently put out a report detailing a wide range of government violations, including violation of freedom of expression, movement and religion. Furthermore, the report also highlights execution, torture, lengthy detention in political prison camps and abduction of foreign nationals as widespread practices in the country.
Evidently, visiting North Korea has moral implications, and potential tourists have to decide for themselves if they are to willingly contribute to the North Korean regime. One possible way to approach this is to visit the country with the intention of engaging with citizens and, if possible, learning about their opinions and beliefs. This could be done through conversations with locals and exchanges of cultural ideas.
However, it is important to note that citizens are highly discouraged from speaking out against the government and doing so can have serious repercussions. As such, it’s important to be mindful when engaging with locals and understanding that conversations are highly monitored by the state. Therefore, while it is possible to interact with locals to gain insight into the country, it is not advisable to push the conversation too far in order to avoid any possible accusation of spying or subversion.
It is also advised that tourists think carefully about the types of products they are buying during their visit. Avoid any items that might encourage further inequality or repression of citizens, such as souvenirs displaying military or state leaders. Furthermore, it is also advisable to avoid luxury goods and other items which can potentially be used to fund the North Korean regime.
Safety Concerns
It is important to consider the potential safety risks that come with travelling to North Korea. While the US Department of State has not issued a blanket travel warning for North Korea, they do advise against travelling to the country due to the numerous security concerns. Additionally, they warn that there is limited consular access and that visitors to the country may be subject to arbitrary arrest.
Furthermore, the unpredictability of the North Korean government should factor into considerations when deciding to visit the country. Therefore, it’s advisable to stay updated on the current political situation in North Korea and to only arrange trips with reputable companies. Tourists must be aware that any negative behaviour on their part, including disrespecting national symbols such as the North Korean flag or portrait of Kim Il-sung, can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment.
Furthermore, tourists must keep in mind that their phones and other electronic devices are closely monitored in North Korea. As such, it’s important to familiarise themselves with the laws and limit conversations to those allowed by the regime. It’s undisputable that there are numerous safety concerns to take into account when planning a trip to North Korea. Thus, it’s advisable to make an educated decision based on a full assessment of the risks and potential rewards.
Cultural Timidity
Despite the difficulties posed by North Korea’s situation, its culture still captivates tourists. The country has a unique and fascinating history, as well as a distinct visual aesthetic that separates it from other Asian countries. Many tourists also remark on the timidity of North Koreans, which is due in part to their authoritarian government.
While it’s understandable that tourists are curious about the culture of North Korea, it’s important to be respectful of the locals and not to pry too deeply into their personal lives. Hopeful tourists must remember that North Koreans are tightly monitored by the government and that conversations with foreigners are heavily scrutinised. Thus, it is important to be mindful of a local’s body language in order to avoid making them uncomfortable.
The most respectful approach to dealing with locals is to approach conversations with an open mind. This is also a great opportunity to learn more about the people and their culture, as locals are usually more than willing to talk about their experiences. Moreover, it is also a chance to gain insight into the reality of the country. Thus, by being open and maintaining a respectful attitude, tourists can demonstrate their understanding and help forge a more positive relationship between tourists and locals.
Tourism Benefits
The influx of tourists to North Korea also offers numerous advantages to the country, beyond the profit generated from the tourism industry. These include the sharing of cultures and ideas with foreign nations, which can help North Koreans gain a better understanding of the outside world. Additionally, it also encourages the development of domestic infrastructure, with transportation and accommodation services improving as more tourists flock to the country.
Furthermore, tourists have a potential role to play in helping to open up North Korea, by demonstrating to the people their potential to benefit from international exchange and collaboration. Additionally, it’s been observed that, as more foreigners travel to the country, more locals are beginning to enjoy access to some modern luxuries, such as foreign books and films. Thus, by opting to travel to North Korea, tourists can assist in, albeit in a small way, in the nation’s gradual process of transformation.
In conclusion, deciding whether or not to travel to North Korea is not a simple decision. Malaysians who are considering visiting the country have to weigh the potential risks and rewards. It is important to take into account safety and security concerns, as well as the moral implications of travelling to the nation. Nevertheless, with the necessary precautions, it is possible to have a safe, educational and, potentially rewarding, experience.
