As a surprise move, North Korea has introduced its decision to welcome international travelers for the first time since it was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and thus the world could get a look at it. A rare look at one of the most closed-off countries in the world is what this could be. The announcement created an interest among adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts who are eager to walk the path of mysteries and the things that make up the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

This decision to once again open the doors of entry after almost five years has been a result of the strict border closures which were enforced through January 2020 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In contrast, North Korea maintained an even more absolute stance on border matters than it already did. The head of the country, Kim Jong Un, had enforced a “maximum emergency” system that suspended the right to leave North Korea and halted international trade. This move might be interpreted as a step back to the narrative that existed before the pandemic and, at the same time, is seen as a means of the state rebuilding the economy by using tourism as a tool for achieving this goal.

Nevertheless, visitors should be cognizant that traveling to North Korea is closely restricted and held with lots of risks. The state’s tourism industry is fully commanded by the government, so visitors are compelled to be with authorized tour groups and to respect the rules. Travelling alone is not permitted and the tourists are safeguarded by government-assigned drivers. In spite of these hindrances, the reopening presents a great chance for those who want to get a taste of North Korea’s original culture, buildings, and natural beauty directly.

This development is under close watch of the international community as it may be symptomatic of a broader change in the foreign policy of North Korea. Although the tourism industry alone is not likely to have a great effect on the North Korean political system, the increased number of foreigners visits to the country might help the gradual change in the social and economic aspects of the country. With North Korea’s careful permission for the world to enter, it is interesting to see how well the new chapter in their tourism industry will go and if it might affect the nation’s standing amongst other countries.