North Korea has announced the return of its Pyongyang International Marathon, the first event of its kind in six years, as the isolated nation begins to reopen its borders following the pandemic. The marathon, scheduled for Sunday, features participation from foreign runners after a lengthy period of restricted access to the reclusive country. Even still, close to 200 of those travelers landed in Pyongyang on Friday and Saturday, excited to experience this special sporting event.
The joint appearance at the marathon would constitute a historic turning point for North Korea. From early 2020, the country had virtually closed its borders and adopted draconian measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Since early 2023, the country has gradually removed most of these limitations. Today, international visitors can once again come in just as freely. Racers from other countries, such as China and Romania have participated in the event. This rare opportunity has this diverse group of athletes chomping at the bit.
Participants have been training at the Changgwang Hotel in Pyongyang in advance of the marathon. Official Pyongyang Marathon partner Koryo Tours was integral in bringing the unique experience of this event to life. The organization assisted with the sign-up process for international visitors, ensuring that everything ran smoothly for the influx of travelers.
Because the marathon course is essentially a tour through the heart of Pyongyang, participants run past most of the capital’s famous sites. An incredible gathering space, participants will first experience the vibrant urban fabric. After that, they’ll take a short loop through the peaceful farmland just beyond the city limits, bringing them back into the stadium. Look for more than 50,000 home folks to marshal their herons like a spirited invading armada. They will jump for joy when their runners cross the finish line!
