In brief
The long-awaited Pyongyang International Marathon returns after a six-year break, with around 200 foreign participants joining North Koreans in a unique tour experience, highlighting the country’s gradual reopening.
___North Korea has officially reopened its borders to international sporting events by hosting the Pyongyang International Marathon for the first time in six years. Approximately 200 foreign runners took to the streets of the capital this past Sunday, marking a significant event since the last marathon held in 2019.Originally initiated in 1981, the marathon has been traditionally held in April to honor the birthday of Kim Il Sung, the country's founding leader. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea closed its borders, making Sunday’s race particularly special. Prior to this event, the marathon featured 950 international participants before the country began its self-isolation.Since the pandemic, North Korea has been cautious in reopening, allowing in only a limited flow of foreign tourists, particularly from Russia since last year. This year's racers entered North Korea as part of organized tour groups, a practice established prior to the pandemic's onset. Koryo Tours, a travel agency based in Beijing, promotes six-day marathon packages priced at 2,195 euros (about $2,406), which cover travel to and from Beijing.In a tour that allowed international runners to engage with locals, the marathon route showcased significant locations, including the Kim Il Sung Stadium and the Arch of Triumph. Photos from the event displayed enthusiastic spectators rallying behind speedsters, waving gold flags. Local competitor Pak Kum Dong shared, "The eyes of our people on me helped me bear the difficulties whenever I feel tired," adding a personal touch to the sporting event.While race results remain undisclosed, the Pyongyang International Marathon signifies a pivotal moment in the country’s gradual re-engagement with the world, having seen only limited tourism activity in early 2023.
