In December, North Korea is set to reopen its borders to international tourists, focusing initially on the northeastern city of Samjiyon, according to tour operators.

This development suggests that the isolated nation is preparing to allow larger groups of foreign visitors after maintaining strict COVID-19 border restrictions for several years.

Beijing-based Koryo Tours announced on Wednesday that it had received confirmation from local partners about the resumption of tourism in Samjiyon and potentially across other parts of the country starting in December 2024.

This marks a significant shift, as North Korea has largely been closed to international travellers since the onset of the pandemic in 2020.

Although international flights to and from North Korea resumed last year, and a select group of Russian tourists were allowed a private visit in February, the country has not fully opened its doors to broader international tourism.

Koryo Tours expressed enthusiasm about the development, noting that after a four-year wait, they are eager to welcome tourists back to North Korea.

The company highlighted that its local partner would soon provide more details regarding travel itineraries and specific dates.

Samjiyon, located near the Chinese border, has been a focal point for North Korean development efforts.

The city is being transformed into what North Korean officials describe as a “socialist utopia” and a model of a “highly-civilized mountain city.”

This transformation includes the construction of new residential areas, hotels, a ski resort, and various commercial, cultural, and medical facilities.

The development project has faced scrutiny, leading to the recent dismissal or demotion of senior officials by Kim Jong Un due to what was termed as “irresponsible” management of the Samjiyon initiative.

KTG Tours also confirmed that they would be offering trips to Samjiyon starting this winter, signalling a broader reopening of North Korean tourism.