It has become a common misconception that North Korea is off limits to the average traveller. The truth is that foreign tourists can visit North Korea, albeit with strict regulations. Although the country has a slightly negative reputation due to its nuclear arsenal and authoritarian regime, it can be safe to travel to North Korea. It is important, however, to become well-informed and familiar with the rules and regulations as well as the risks before travelling to the country.
Due to recent cases of foreign tourists being detained in North Korea, potential visitors may be concerned about their safety. The most infamous case was that of American college student, Otto Warmbier. He was imprisoned for 17 months after attempting to steal a propaganda poster. He was released in a coma in June 2017 and died soon afterwards. Other cases include two Korean-American professors and a South Korean missionary who were charged with ‘hostile acts’ against North Korea.
It runs a serious risk for potential visitors to North Korea, as the country is known for having one of the most oppressive governments in the world. Visitors may also be monitored while they are there, even though they are not necessarily under arrest. The government also maintains strict control on movement, owning media related items such as computer disks, and access to the internet. Furthermore, it is likely the case that any suspicious activities will occur at a rapid pace and with little explanation.
Accessibility of North Korea
Despite the negative portrayal of North Korea, the country, in reality, is still very accessible. Tourists can enter with a special travel permit, but there are some restrictions set by the government. It is required for travellers to be accompanied by a tour group and to stay in the officially sanctioned hotels. They are also forbidden from taking pictures of certain locations, talking to the locals, or travelling beyond their approved route. Furthermore, a person visitor’s visa only last for one-month. For example, it is not possible to travel from Pyongyang to South Korea at any point during the trip.
While there may be a plethora of guidelines in place for travellers, the North Korean government does permit tourism to some extent and does not present any major problems. It is possible to meet local citizens outside of your tour, with friendly exchanges common. Furthermore, U.S. citizens are allowed to visit North Korea, though the process is more restrictive and may require additional permits.
Views from Experts
Those who are familiar with North Korea agree that certain parts of the country are safe for traveller. In an interview, the director of a North Korea tour company noted that North Korea is, for the most part, a safe place for tourists. In the same interview, the director mentioned that he never encountered a situation that felt especially dangerous and warned tourists against buying souvenirs with hard-currency, as it could be illegal.
In May 2017, the U.K. and Canadian Embassies in Pyongyang issued a joint statement urging caution and common sense when travelling in North Korea. They suggest avoiding political topics with the locals and to respect their culture and laws against taking photographs.
In June 2017, the U.S. State Department confirmed their travel advisory for North Korea, placing the country at the highest, ‘do not travel’ alert. They have added to visitors to exercise extra caution as the North Korean government exercises excessive control over information in the country.
In addition, the Swedish Embassy in Pyongyang has stepped in over the past several years alone to help prevent or resolve conflicts when tourists encounter legal difficulties during their visits. In many cases, Swedish Embassy staff were allowed to meet with detained tourists and were able to help them resolve the situation.
The Country Today
Despite its tensions with the Western world, North Korea has become much more open in the past few years. Even with the current tensions, many visitors report being surprised at the hospitality and friendliness they experienced in the country. While one should certainly remain alert and cautious while in North Korea, it is possible to enjoy the experience without running into trouble.
According to travel experts and journalists, travelling to North Korea can also provide an opportunity to obtain a better understanding of the country and its people. Some have even described the experience as eye-opening and more than worth it. Furthermore, the sights and beauty of the country have gained popularity and have been seen as the key determining factor in enticing more and more tourists.
Overall, travelling to North Korea is a unique opportunity to be offered access to an otherwise closed-off country. What used to be an elusive destination is now much more accessible, but you should be aware of the risks and limitations. When done according to the guidelines set by the North Korean government and with a tour group, it can be said that North Korea is safe for tourists.
Local Customs & Culture
Travelling to North Korea is not the same as travelling to other countries in the world; the local customs, culture and language can be quite different. While there are some similarities in the culture, such as the use of spoken Korean and the same currency, the idiom of the language and deciphering of the customs can still be a bit tricky. Furthermore, as the locals are not used to tourists, they may have a tough time interacting with them in a comfortable manner.
Therefore, it is important for tourists to respect the local customs and traditions. It is considered polite to wear modest clothing and not to take photos of the locals without their permission. Furthermore, visitors should avoid discussing politics or any other hot-button topics with the locals. Respect and politeness are paramount if travellers want to ensure a smooth and successful trip to North Korea.
Your Guide to North Korea
For most visitors, a guided tour is the way to go. There are numerous organisations offering packages to North Korea, such as the Young Pioneer Tours or Koryo Tours. It is important to research the different companies available, paying particular attention to those who hold the necessary permits. All visitors must be accompanied by a guide for the duration of their stay, who is deemed responsible for their safety and well-being.
Furthermore, travellers should also be aware of the cost, as a tour of North Korea can be quite expensive due to the bureaucracy and special rates imposed by the North Korean government. It is necessary to have a valid passport and get a visa before you depart, as it will be impossible to obtain one once in the country.
Finally, those interested in visiting North Korea should keep in mind the possibility of being put under surveillance while in the country. This means that travellers should be mindful of their behaviour and words, as there is a good chance that it will be monitored and reported back to the Ministry of State Security.
Top Places to Visit
North Korea’s capital of Pyongyang is an interesting and dynamic city, with a far better infrastructure than much of the rest of the country. It is a hub of commerce, education and culture, with cultural shows and monuments that offer a glimpse into the country’s past. Some interesting sites to visit include the Juche Tower, the Mansudae Grand Monument, the Tomb of King Tongmyong and the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun.
Other cities worth self-exploring for travellers include Nampo, Hamhung and Chongjin. All three cities are close to the border with South Korea, making them easy to access from Pyongyang. Each city offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of North Koreans, as well as access to some of the country’s most stunning natural attractions.
Of course, travelling to North Korea is incomplete without a stop at the sacred mountain of Mt. Paektu. Also known as Mt. Baekdu, this grand volcano and its accompanying lake are considered sacred by the North Korean people and believed to be the birthplace of their legendary leader, Kim Jong-il.
Finally, the islands off the east coast of the country can be great places to visit and explore. These islands are largely uninhabited, with wild beaches and forests. Visitors could also go fishing or birdwatching while visiting the pristine environment that exists here.
Staying Connected to the Rest of the World
It is important to note that while abroad in North Korea, you won’t have access to the internet, or to the various other forms of communication that are accessible in most other parts of the world. With the exception of international calls that may be made from certain hotel lobbies, it is only possible to communicate with a few North Korean citizens via phone.
If travellers do need to stay in touch with the outside world, there are several methods for doing so. For example, travellers can buy a North Korean SIM card, which allows for international calls and messaging. Another option is to make use of North Korean cafes and restaurants, which offer free Wi-Fi.
In order to stay in touch with other travellers and family abroad during their stay in North Korea, travellers should take their own phone and make sure it is properly configured with a VPN (Virtual Private Network). This can allow travellers to access restricted networks in the country and stay in touch with those outside of North Korea without the risk of being watched by the authorities.
Be Respectful and Enjoy the Journey
While travelling to North Korea is certainly an interesting and rewarding experience, visitors should always remember that it is still a communist country with a strict code of conduct. Therefore, it is crucial to be respectful of the local customs and culture. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind the risks involved in such a unique destination and to prepare for any eventualities.
Finally, when travelling to this mysterious land, visitors should always remember to enjoy the journey and embrace the fact that they are one of the few privileged outsiders to explore North Korea’s hidden beauty. Despite its negative reputation, North Korea truly is one of the most interesting places to visit, if not the most interesting.
