New evidence suggests a potential flight resumption for routes between Pyongyang and Shanghai. A circulating social media video shows an Air Koryo timetable listing the service. Consequently, this development signals warming bilateral relations and economic strategy. Analysts view this potential flight resumption as a key foreign currency initiative. The timetable details twice-weekly nighttime flights starting late October. However, the airline’s official website does not yet confirm this scheduled service.
The last regular passenger flight on this route operated in late December 2019. North Korea then sealed its borders due to the global pandemic. Notably, flights to Beijing resumed over a year ago in August 2023. The Shanghai route, however, carries distinct commercial and tourism purposes. Therefore, its potential restoration holds significant economic implications. Speculation about this flight resumption has surfaced periodically without fulfillment until now.
The posted timetable represents the first unified public evidence. It combines the carrier’s name, schedule, and destination clearly. Experts immediately analyzed the broader strategic meaning behind this move. Cheong Seong-chang of the Sejong Institute provided detailed perspective. He connected the development to improved diplomatic relations with China. Furthermore, he cited the North Korean leader’s recent visit to Chinese celebrations.
This potential aviation restoration aligns with stated domestic tourism goals. Leader Kim Jong-un recently inspected a major coastal tourist zone. He emphasized plans for developing national tourism and cultural districts. Additionally, an upcoming political congress may finalize large-scale tourism complexes. The flight resumption would directly support these ambitious infrastructure projects.
Economist Kim Mi-yeon noted ongoing internal preparations for tourism. North Korea apparently refined its online booking and payment systems. The country also upgraded transportation and visitor facility infrastructure. These improvements could facilitate longer leisure stays for international tourists. Several hotel projects reportedly aim to accommodate tens of thousands of visitors.
The circulated schedule also shows increased service to Vladivostok. Air Koryo currently operates flights to Beijing and Shenyang. The airline additionally maintains domestic routes to key tourist sites. These locations include the symbolic Paektusan mountain region. A restored Shanghai link would majorly expand accessible tourist gateways.
Ultimately, this development reflects a calculated economic opening. Air travel restoration offers a relatively low-cost diplomatic testing mechanism. It allows for gradual reengagement while generating needed foreign currency. The move strategically leverages China’s role as primary trade partner. Observers will monitor official airline and airport confirmations closely. Future tourism success may encourage further international route expansions.
