Flights
Flight service between North Korea and South Korea has been largely suspended since the Korean war of 1950-1953. However, nowadays, entering North Korea from South Korea is still possible but requires special arrangements and frequently requires to stay in another third country. Travelers hoping to cross the border, may find that connecting flights are quicker and more reliable. Taking this kind of flights from Seoul is the most convenient way to access North Korea for visitors.
The unique experience of landing in the North Korea feeling the thrill of crossing one of the world’s most militarized borders, is still unforgettable. The only international flight at Pyongyang Airport is the thrice-weekly service between Pyongyang and the Chinese city of Shenyang operated by Air Koryo. The journey time is one and half hours, which makes it the most convenient option for travelers from Seoul.
Permits
Another important aspect of getting from South Korea to North Korea is the organization of permits. As visitors will often enter and remain in the country as visitors or invited guests, they will need to get an entry permit to enter the country. The main objective of the entry permit is to show to authorities that a traveler’s plans are in accordance with the government regulations. South Korean citizens are rarely allowed to cross the border.
Due to an increased number of travelers to the area, the process of obtaining the entry permit has become easier. All South Korean citizens seeking diplomatic visa should submit an official letter of invitation from an organization of North Korea as an additional requirement. This permit allows travelers to travel to North Korean cities, such as Pyongyang, Hamhung, and Wonsan, as well as remote villages and natural reserves.
Travel Insurance
Most tourists crossing the border into North Korea from South Korea will be required to purchase special travel insurance. This insurance acts as a safeguard for travelers who plan on visiting North Korea, protecting them in case of unexpected medical expenses, personal accident, and damage to the luggage or personal belongings. Depending on the country, travelers may need to purchase a travel insurance policy that covers North Korea.
Furthermore, visitors should double-check the policy details and coverage limits, as well as make sure that the insurance provider is officially authorized to provide services in North Korea. Insurance companies in South Korea have been known to be less than honest in their presentation of coverage, for instance, refusing to cover certain events such as political unrest, nuclear hazards, and epidemics.
Money and Currency
In North Korea, the official currency is the North Korean Won (KPW), but contrary to other countries, North Korean Won is not allowed to be imported from abroad. Therefore, all visitors entering from South Korea must exchange the foreign currency they are carrying at the Foreign Exchange Bank located within Pyongyang International Airport. It is allowed to bring cash, but the exchange must be made at this particular bank.
Furthermore, different countries often have restrictions in place regarding the amount of money people can carry when crossing the border of two nations. Therefore, it is always advisable to check the applicable regulations. Additionally, credit cards and debit cards are not accepted within the area.
Staying Safe and Healthy
When crossing the border from South Korea to North Korea, safety and security should always remain the primary concern. Each country has in place its own specific safety regulations, so travelers should check these regulations before taking any kind of journey through the region.
In addition to being aware of the safety issues, it is equally important to be aware of your health when crossing the border from South Korea to North Korea. Medical care is lacking in this part of the world, and if a visitor falls ill, there is a chance that the illness could be complicated and costly to treat. Therefore, it is essential to take all necessary precautions to remain healthy.
Important Documents
Before undertaking the journey, it is essential to ensure that all the documents necessary for traveling are in proper order. For example, visitors must ensure that their passport is valid, and that they are allowed to enter into North Korea without any problems. Furthermore, they should also make sure that they have the correct visa documents, entry permits, and other necessary forms before leaving South Korea.
Culture and Language
North Korea is still a largely unpredictable and misunderstood country and traveling there can be a difficult experience for unprepared travelers. That is why it is important to be well-informed about the specific culture, traditions and language spoken in the country. A visitor should pay attention to the etiquette and customs while in North Korea, and be aware that it is still considered a nation isolated from the rest of the world. Knowledge of the Korean language would come in handy, but it is not essential.
Clothing and Weather
Clothing should be appropriate for the region and the weather conditions as well. While in North Korea, visitors should dress conservatively and avoid wearing clothing that can be construed as political symbols. In terms of the weather, temperature in North Korea drops below freezing in winter and can reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius in summer, so proper preparation is required.
Food and Accommodation
When it comes to food and accommodation, visitors should keep in mind that North Korea is still a developing country, and there are limited options available, even in Pyongyang. It is important to be aware of the fact that food preparation and hospitality standards are not as high as in neighboring countries, and it is important to bear in mind the local customs when dining out. Furthermore, for accommodation, it is best to check availability and prices on online booking sites, as well as researching through hotel reviews.
Conclusion
Crossing the border from South Korea to North Korea requires careful planning and preparation. From considering money and currency exchanges, to the importance of obtaining insurance and documents, to being aware of the culture and language of the region, visitors should make sure to consider all aspects before undertaking this journey. Furthermore, being aware of the clothing and weather, as well as food and accommodation options appropriate for the region are essential. With careful planning and preparation, this once-in-a-lifetime experience can be enjoyed safely.
