North Korea Reopens Borders to Host Pyongyang International Marathon

A Return to International Events After a Long Hiatus

North Korea is hosting its first Pyongyang International Marathon in six years, welcoming foreign runners to the reclusive country that had largely closed its borders during the pandemic. The event marks a significant step towards the country’s slow reopening to international tourism.

International Participants Arrive in Pyongyang

Athletes from China, Romania, and other countries have arrived in North Korea to participate in the event, as reported by state media KCNA news agency and Rodong Sinmun on Sunday. About 200 travellers entered Pyongyang on Friday and Saturday, with runners from overseas practicing at a hotel in Pyongyang for the Sunday race, according to Simon Cockerell, general manager at Beijing-based Koryo Tours. Koryo Tours is the official partner of the Pyongyang Marathon, facilitating the sign-up process for international visitors.

A Brief History of the Pyongyang Marathon

The Pyongyang International Marathon is one of the events celebrating the April 15 birthday of Kim Il Sung, North Korea’s founder and grandfather of the current leader Kim Jong Un. The marathon is a return course that runs through central Pyongyang, passing the city’s landmarks, heading out into the countryside just outside of the city centre, and coming back to the stadium with a crowd of 50,000 locals, according to Koryo Tours.

The Road to Reopening

The isolated state sealed its borders in 2020 at the start of the pandemic but has been slowly lifting restrictions since 2023. While it allowed some Russian tourist groups into the country, its capital remains closed to regular tourism. The marathon marks a significant milestone in North Korea’s gradual reopening to the world.

The Event Details

The Pyongyang International Marathon features a return course that takes participants through the heart of Pyongyang, offering a unique opportunity to experience the city’s landmarks and culture. The event is expected to attract a large crowd of locals, with over 50,000 spectators expected to line the course.

Conclusion

The Pyongyang International Marathon is a significant event for North Korea, marking a return to international events after a long hiatus. The country’s gradual reopening to tourism is a positive step towards reengaging with the world, and this event is a testament to that effort.

FAQs

• Q: When is the Pyongyang International Marathon taking place?
  A: The marathon is taking place on Sunday.
• Q: Who is participating in the event?
  A: Athletes from China, Romania, and other countries are participating in the event.
• Q: How many travellers have entered Pyongyang for the event?
  A: Approximately 200 travellers have entered Pyongyang for the event.
• Q: What is the significance of the Pyongyang International Marathon?
  A: The marathon is one of the events celebrating the April 15 birthday of Kim Il Sung, North Korea’s founder and grandfather of the current leader Kim Jong Un.