After a prolonged three-year isolation due to stringent COVID-19 restrictions, North Korea is finally reopening its borders to foreigners, as announced by official Chinese media.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic that swept across the globe in early 2020, North Korea took strict precautionary measures, sealing off its borders not only to foreigners but also to its own citizens.
However, recent indicators in this month signal a shift in this stance. Notably, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russia for a significant meeting with President Vladimir Putin. Additionally, North Korean athletes have been dispatched to participate in the Asian Games taking place in Hangzhou, eastern China.
According to China’s official CCTV network, North Korea has declared its intent to permit foreigners to enter its territory once more. The report further elaborated on the protocols for these international visitors: upon arrival, they will undergo a two-day quarantine period to ensure the safety of both the visitors and the local population.
This decision by North Korea is seen as a substantial step in reintegrating with the global community, suggesting potential economic and diplomatic implications. As countries worldwide continue to adjust and reform their COVID-19 policies, North Korea’s reopening is yet another example of nations attempting to strike a balance between health safety and international collaboration.
