Title: A Peek into North Korea: Russian Tourists Share Their Unique Travel Experience
Lena Bychcova, a marketing professional, was filled with a sense of disbelief when she received her North Korean tourist visa. With many travel destinations off-limits to Russians, North Korea extended an unusual invitation for tourism due to its strategic alliance with Russia. Bychcova was among the approximately 100 Russian nationals who were given permission to travel to North Korea this February, believed to be the first international tourist group since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.
The intricacies of tourism in North Korea are well-known. Solo travelers are not permitted, and all tourists must be part of organized groups that are closely monitored by minders. Tourism revenue plays a crucial role in supporting the regime led by dictator Kim Jong Un. Traveling to North Korea carries significant risks, as was evident with the detention of American college student Otto Warmbier in 2016 for allegedly stealing a propaganda poster. He was later released in a vegetative state, leading to his unfortunate demise soon after.
The Russian travelers arrived in Pyongyang via a North Korean Air Koryo flight from Vladivostok on February 9. Despite feelings of nervousness and apprehension, their curiosity overrode their fears, enabling them to witness a country that is seldom explored by tourists. Ilya Voskresensky, a travel blogger, echoed the sentiments of many as he pondered the possibility of experiencing modern-day North Korea, reminiscent of the Soviet Russia his family members had described.
The four-day tour cost each visitor approximately $750. The group was accompanied by Russian-speaking guides and translators at all times, allowing the travelers to immerse themselves in North Korean culture. Their itinerary included visits to significant sites such as Mansu Hill with its bronze statues of late leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il, the Mangyongdae Children’s Palace where children put on a music and dance performance, and three days at Masikryong Ski Resort.
The Russians were given specific guidelines to follow during their visit, including restrictions on photographing military personnel or buildings under construction. Bychcova noted that the newspapers with images of the leaders were among her most cherished souvenirs from North Korea. The tourists also had access to limited shopping options, including two shops – one at the airport and another in the capital – where they could purchase magnets, dolls, Lego sets, and other small gifts.
Before the pandemic, China was North Korea’s largest source of inbound tourists. The Russians represented the first group to enter the hermit kingdom since the pandemic, marking a growing interest between the two nations. However, this renewed relationship has raised concerns among international intelligence agencies due to North Korea’s controversial dealings with Russia, including providing missiles for use against Ukraine.
Despite the political tensions, Voskresensky and Bychcova emphasized that their intentions were not political. They embarked on this journey to connect with local North Korean people and establish relationships. Upon returning, however, Bychcova expressed her doubts about the feasibility of genuine connections within the North Korean system.
The children’s performance for the tourists was a carefully crafted display designed to convey a particular image of North Korea. Although some aspects appeared authentic, others hinted at an orchestrated presentation. The Russians were able to engage in discussions about their experiences and thoughts on the Kim regime openly while in North Korea, but they soon realized that such freedoms do not extend to their own country.
Criticism of Putin and Russia’s policies, as well as the military, are criminal offenses in Russia. Prominent figures who have voiced dissenting opinions or provided support for Ukraine have faced arrests and charges of extremist activity. Even a seemingly innocuous donation to a Ukrainian charity resulted in the arrest of a 33-year-old dual citizen of Russia and the United States last week.
Despite being aware of North Korea’s human rights abuses, both Voskresensky and Bychcova were determined to make the most of their experience in hopes of forming genuine connections with local civilians. They now contemplate returning to North Korea, but only if the political climate changes significantly.
Voskresensky emphasized that his content’s primary message is the importance of treating people with love and respect, regardless of their nationality or country. He hopes that traveling can foster understanding and unity in an increasingly divided world. Another Russian ski trip to North Korea is scheduled for March 2024.
