North Korea Tourism Comes One Step Closer

After years of strict border closures and travel restrictions, North Korea appears to be taking steps toward reopening to foreign tourists.

Why It Matters

North Korea closed its borders five years ago when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and they have remained shut ever since, further isolating the country, known by its nickname the Hermit Kingdom, from the rest of the world.

However, the opening of its borders could indicate that North Korea is seeking to revive its limited tourism industry, reestablish economic ties with key partners like China and Russia, and ease its self-imposed isolation. The move could also signal a need for foreign currency, a shift in its pandemic policies, or a broader attempt to reengage with the international…