When people begin ticking off every country in the world, they typically start with their neighbouring nations, followed by those that are easily accessible in terms of flights and visas, leaving the destinations on the road less travelled at the very end of their to-visit list.
North Korea is certainly one of those destinations, with the country only allowing visitors on tour groups in before COVID-19 struck in 2020. The country is yet to reopen fully to tourists – while it did reopen its borders briefly in March this year, they have since closed again, with only a small number of Russian visitors granted entry.
If you’re determined to visit the pariah state, we have good news, as there is a way to do so in April next year – but you’ll have to put on your running shoes.
Koryo Tours has announced that entry is now open for the Pyongyang Marathon on 5 April 2026, and your race will include either a three- or five-night stay, allowing you to explore the country’s capital (on a guided tour, of course).
Open to all amateur runners, you can take on a 5km, 10km, half-marathon or full marathon route around the city, with trips departing from Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenyang.
Koryo Tours, who are the official Pyongyang Marathon partners, have more details on their website.
More information: koryotours.com
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