The UK continues to advise against all but essential travel. North Korea after reports emerged that the borders would reopen to tourists.
Beijing-based Koryo Tours said it had received confirmation that the hermit kingdom would open its doors to foreigners for the first time since 2020.
The company said international tourists will be able to visit the Samjiyon area from December, with dates and itineraries expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
The Express understands the Ministry of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development (FCDO) continuously revises its travel advice based on the news.
But the advice remains the same for now: people are urgently requested not to visit the country unless there is absolutely no other option.
Current incidents and risks listed on the website, which was last updated in August 2023, include a lack of consular support and continued nuclear testing by the leader Kim Yong-un.
“Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have remained high since 2017, when North Korea began a series of nuclear and missile tests,” the report said.
“Ballistic missile tests have been taking place regularly since 2019.”
The British government is said to welcome North Korea's moves to reopen its border. While no changes have been made, officials are also expected to encourage the country to “facilitate the return of the wider international community”.
The December reopening would mark the first time foreigners have been allowed in since they were shut out during the pandemic.
Koryo Tours even said it hopes to offer a trip to Pyongyang and other parts of the country in August 2025.
The travel agency executives explained that the opening of Samjiyon City may seem unusual, but this is the most famous region in North Korea for winter tourism.
The area is home to the famous Mt. Paektu volcanic mountain, the highest peak in Korea. Sky News has reported that Kim wants to build a “socialist utopia” in the Chinese border town.
Koryo Tours added that the first trips there could be exciting.
“For those hoping to attend one of the earlier tours, we would like to stress that things may be a little more chaotic than usual,” the company added.
“But of course you are in the safe hands of the North Korea tour experts here at Koryo Tours. Your safety is our priority.”