North Korea remains one of the most isolated and enigmatic countries in the world. Travel to North Korea is strongly discouraged due to significant safety risks, including arbitrary detention and the unpredictable security situation stemming from its nuclear weapons program and authoritarian regime. This North Korea Travel Advisory provides essential information for those considering travel, highlighting critical safety and security concerns, entry requirements, health risks, and local laws to be aware of. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about travel to this unique and challenging destination.
Safety and Security Situation in North Korea
Navigating safety and security in North Korea requires careful consideration. Since 2020, North Korea has enforced strict border closures for travelers from most countries, making entry exceptionally difficult. Should you decide to travel against this strong advisory, registering your trip with your country’s embassy in a nearby nation, such as the Embassy of Canada to the Republic of Korea in Seoul, or the protecting power’s embassy (Embassy of Sweden to North Korea in Pyongyang for Canadians), is highly recommended, though consular assistance remains extremely limited.
Safety Information and Potential Risks
Detention, particularly outside of Pyongyang, is a serious concern. Consular access by foreign governments is severely restricted by North Korean authorities, which could greatly limit assistance if you are detained. The lack of transparency within the North Korean police and judicial systems further complicates any potential consular intervention.
Basic necessities are also a concern. North Korea experiences significant shortages of food, electricity, and clean water, which could impact travelers.
Privacy is non-existent. Expect constant surveillance of your movements and communications. Personal belongings are subject to search, and authorities may scrutinize the data on your electronic devices.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula
Geopolitical tensions on the Korean Peninsula are a major factor influencing travel safety. Escalations can occur rapidly, potentially triggered by North Korea’s nuclear and missile tests, military drills, or incidents along the inter-Korean border. These events can significantly and suddenly degrade the security environment.
Access to international news within North Korea is severely restricted. Travelers may be unaware of developments that could directly impact their safety and security. This information blackout can leave visitors vulnerable and unprepared for sudden changes.
Crime and Personal Security
While not typically associated with violent crime against tourists, petty crime, particularly theft, does occur, especially at Pyongyang Sunan International Airport. It is essential to secure personal belongings, including passports and travel documents, to mitigate this risk.
Road Travel and Transportation
Independent travel is not permitted. Foreigners are barred from driving, and movement is heavily restricted. All transportation is arranged through government-assigned tour guides or authorities. While major highways are generally well-maintained, rural roads can be hazardous due to poor conditions.
Checkpoints and Security Presence
Police checkpoints are prevalent throughout North Korea. Expect frequent stops and requests for identification. A heavy security force presence is normal. Cooperation with security personnel, including presenting identification when requested and following instructions, is crucial.
Air Travel Safety
It is important to note that assessments of North Korean domestic airlines’ compliance with international safety standards are not readily available. Travelers should be aware of this uncertainty when considering domestic air travel within North Korea.
North Korea Entry and Exit Requirements
Entry and exit regulations for North Korea are determined solely by North Korean authorities and are subject to change without notice. It is imperative to verify the most current requirements with the nearest North Korean diplomatic representation before travel. Consular assistance from your home government in cases of denied entry or exit is unlikely.
Passport Validity
Passport requirements are dependent on the type of passport used. Always confirm specific requirements with your airline or travel provider as their rules regarding passport validity might be stricter than North Korean entry rules.
Regular Canadian Passport (Example)
For instance, a regular Canadian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from North Korea. This is a common requirement, but always double-check for your specific nationality.
Other Passport Types
Passports for official travel and other travel documents, such as temporary or emergency passports, may have different entry requirements. It is essential to consult with the nearest North Korean embassy or consulate for detailed information related to your specific travel document.
Passports with “X” Gender Identifier
While some countries issue passports with an “X” gender identifier, recognition of this identifier is not universal. Travelers with passports using an “X” gender identifier may encounter entry restrictions in countries, including potentially North Korea, that do not recognize it. Verification with North Korean representatives prior to travel is strongly advised.
Visas and Entry Permits
A visa is mandatory for Canadians and most nationalities to enter North Korea. Visas are not issued on arrival and must be obtained from a North Korean mission in a third country after Pyongyang government approval. The visa application process is known to be lengthy and complex.
Arrival in North Korea without a valid passport and visa can result in detention, arrest, fines, or immediate denial of entry.
Journalists intending to report from North Korea must obtain special permission and cannot enter on a tourist visa, even if traveling for personal reasons. Different visa types exist, including tourist, business, work, and student visas, each with specific application procedures.
Additional Entry Information
Entry into North Korea is possible by air or train. However, crossing the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between South and North Korea is strictly prohibited in either direction for tourists.
Even with all entry requirements met, arbitrary arrest and detention at the point of entry remain a risk.
Individuals holding dual citizenship, particularly those with South Korean citizenship or Korean heritage, should carefully reconsider travel to North Korea due to potential scrutiny and the application of specific local laws. South Koreans must obtain permission from South Korean authorities to visit North Korea.
Unauthorized Entry Points
Entering North Korea through unauthorized points is extremely dangerous and has resulted in detentions, injuries, and fatalities. Strict adherence to designated entry points and North Korean procedures is vital.
Health Risks and Medical Information for North Korea Travel
Prioritizing your health when traveling to North Korea is essential due to the country’s limited medical resources and potential health risks. Consulting a healthcare provider or travel health clinic well in advance of your trip, ideally 6 weeks before departure, is strongly recommended for personalized health advice and necessary vaccinations.
Recommended and Routine Vaccinations
Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, and seasonal flu.
Pre-Travel Vaccines and Health Precautions
Travel to North Korea may expose you to diseases preventable by vaccines or medications. Discuss your travel itinerary with a healthcare provider to determine necessary pre-travel vaccinations and medications.
Yellow Fever: While there is no yellow fever risk in North Korea and vaccination is generally not required for entry, it’s always best to discuss this and other potential health risks with a healthcare professional.
Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a risk in North Korea, transmitted through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended, along with practicing strict food and water safety.
Malaria: While malaria transmission is limited and the risk to travelers is very low, mosquito bite prevention is still important. Antimalarial medication is generally not recommended for most travelers but consult a health professional for personalized advice.
Rabies: Rabies is present in North Korea, carried by dogs and wildlife. Avoid contact with animals. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers. Immediate medical attention and potentially returning to your home country for treatment are necessary if bitten.
Measles: Measles is highly contagious. Ensure you are fully protected against measles before traveling.
Japanese Encephalitis: Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection. The risk is very low for most travelers, but vaccination may be considered for those at higher risk, such as long-term travelers to rural areas.
Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a risk in all destinations. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers, especially those who may have exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
COVID-19: COVID-19 remains a global concern. Ensure you are up-to-date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations. Check North Korea’s specific entry/exit requirements related to COVID-19 vaccination before travel.
Influenza: Seasonal influenza is present worldwide. Annual flu vaccination is recommended, ideally at least 2 weeks before travel.
Food and Water Safety
Food and waterborne illnesses are a significant risk. Practice strict safe food and water precautions:
- Only consume food that is safely prepared, thoroughly cooked, or that you can peel yourself.
- Avoid tap water; drink bottled or boiled water.
- Be cautious with ice cubes.
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products.
Travelers’ Diarrhea: Travelers’ diarrhea is common. Pack oral rehydration salts and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.
Typhoid: Typhoid fever, spread through contaminated food and water, is a risk. Vaccination is recommended, especially for travelers to rural areas or those with extended stays.
Insect and Tick Bite Prevention
Prevent insect and tick bites to avoid diseases like dengue and other vector-borne illnesses:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
- Wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk.
- Sleep in screened or air-conditioned accommodations or under mosquito nets.
Dengue: Dengue fever is a sporadic risk in North Korea. Protect yourself from mosquito bites, particularly during the daytime. There is no vaccine for dengue.
Animal Precautions
Avoid contact with animals to prevent diseases like rabies and avian influenza. Do not eat undercooked meat.
Person-to-Person Infections
Practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of respiratory and other infections:
- Wash hands frequently.
- Use hand sanitizer.
- Wear a mask in crowded indoor settings.
- Practice safe sex.
Tuberculosis: Tuberculosis risk is generally low for most travelers, but higher for those visiting or working in high-risk settings like prisons or hospitals.
Medical Services in North Korea
Medical facilities in North Korea are generally poor, with shortages of supplies, unreliable power, and limited advanced care. Medical care is expensive for foreigners, requiring upfront cash payment.
Pyongyang Friendship Hospital is one facility with English-speaking staff. For any serious medical issues or surgeries, medical evacuation is advisable, though difficult to arrange and not guaranteed. Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage, is essential.
Be aware that quarantine measures may be imposed if you exhibit symptoms of a communicable disease.
North Korean Laws and Cultural Norms
Respecting and adhering to North Korean laws and cultural norms is critical for travelers. Penalties for violations can be severe.
Tourist Laws and Regulations
Upon arrival, you will be met by a government-assigned guide who will accompany you at all times. Strictly follow all instructions from your guide. Any behavior deemed inappropriate by North Korean authorities can lead to fines, arrest, or detention. This includes seemingly minor interactions such as unauthorized conversations with locals or shopping in stores not designated for foreigners. Public transportation is off-limits to foreigners.
Drug Laws
Drug offenses carry extremely harsh penalties, including lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines. Be vigilant about your luggage and never transport items for others.
Import and Export Restrictions
Satellite phones and shortwave radios are prohibited and will be confiscated upon arrival (and potentially returned upon departure). Bringing local currency (North Korean Won) into or out of the country is forbidden. Authorities may seize materials deemed pornographic, political, or religious, including literature from South Korea. Exercise caution with any Korean-language materials.
Photography Restrictions
Photography is heavily restricted. It is forbidden to photograph airports, roads, bridges, seaports, rail stations, and military personnel or facilities. Taking photos outside designated tourist areas can result in equipment confiscation or detention. Always seek permission from your guide before taking any photographs.
Dual Citizenship Issues
North Korea does not legally recognize dual citizenship. If North Korean authorities consider you a North Korean citizen, access to consular services from your home country may be denied.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction does not apply between Canada and North Korea. Legal options for the return of a child taken to North Korea by a parent are limited. Consular officials cannot intervene in private legal matters.
Political Criticism and Speech
Avoid any remarks that could be construed as critical of the North Korean state or its leadership, including Kim Il Sung, Kim Jong Il, and Kim Jong Un. Such criticism can lead to imprisonment.
2SLGBTQI+ Travelers
The legal and social status of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals in North Korea is uncertain. Homosexuality is not widely accepted, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals may experience harassment.
Currency and Finances
The North Korean Won (KPW) is the local currency, but foreigners primarily use Euros, Chinese Renminbi, or US dollars. Cash is the dominant form of payment. Credit card acceptance is limited, and ATMs are unavailable. Be prepared for a cash-based economy and potential difficulty obtaining change in foreign currency.
Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations in North Korea
North Korea is susceptible to natural disasters, and climate change is exacerbating extreme weather events. Monitor local weather reports for updates.
Rainy and Typhoon Seasons
The rainy season spans from late June to August, with July being the wettest month, increasing risks of flooding and landslides. Typhoon season occurs in August and September, bringing severe storms that can cause significant damage and disrupt essential services.
If traveling during these seasons, be prepared for potential travel disruptions, including itinerary changes or trip cancellations. Stay informed about weather forecasts, maintain contact with your airline or tour operator, and follow guidance from local authorities.
Disclaimer: Travel to North Korea is undertaken at your own risk. Be prepared and understand that medical and other services may not meet the standards of your home country. Carry a comprehensive travel health kit. Your personal safety is your responsibility.
