In brief
The Pyongyang International Marathon has made a comeback, welcoming approximately 200 foreign participants after a six-year break due to the pandemic lockdowns.
North Korea recently hosted its renowned Pyongyang International Marathon for the first time in six years, bringing together around 200 foreign runners. The marathon, an annual event since its inception in 1981 to commemorate the birth of Kim Il Sung, was last held in 2019, prior to North Korea's closure amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The reclusive nation had continued to limit international access, allowing only specific groups, including Russian tourists, until recently.Participants this year entered North Korea as part of organized tour groups, a practice that has been revived following pandemic restrictions. Koryo Tours, identified as the exclusive partner for the marathon, offered six-day packages priced at €2,195 ($2,406), covering flights from Beijing. The agency highlighted the marathon as a unique chance for visitors to interact with the local populace.The marathon's route allowed runners to pass by various city landmarks, including the historic Kim Il Sung Stadium and the picturesque Arch of Triumph. Spectators filled the stadium, cheering for athletes, with many held up golden flags in support. North Korean participant Pak Kum Dong expressed pride in racing in front of his compatriots, stating their encouragement motivated him during challenging moments.No official race results were released to the public. North Korea only began easing its strict Covid-19 policies around mid-2023, making tentative steps toward reopening, including a brief experiment with Western tourism in Rason.
