Tourism cooperation between North Korea and Russia is expanding as both governments advance new joint travel initiatives. The move highlights closer bilateral coordination and signals a strategic effort to diversify economic engagement through tourism-related development.
Russia’s Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov confirmed the plans on Friday while discussing ongoing bilateral cooperation. He said both countries are developing new tourism programs and preparing to launch joint infrastructure projects supporting visitor growth.
Kozlov emphasized that tourism cooperation could gradually expand beyond tour packages into long-term infrastructure development. He added that coordinated planning would support sustainable growth and reinforce broader economic ties between the two countries.
Currently, Kozlov co-chairs the North Korea–Russia Intergovernmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, Science and Technology. Therefore, his remarks reflect official policy direction rather than isolated commercial experimentation.
Accordingly, officials have prioritized transport connectivity to facilitate increased tourist flows. Authorities recently opened a direct rail line between Pyongyang and Moscow, significantly improving overland travel access.
In addition, governments launched a direct Pyongyang–Moscow air route to shorten travel times and improve convenience. As a result, tourism cooperation now benefits from stronger logistical foundations supporting higher visitor volumes.
Kozlov reported that Russian tourist arrivals to North Korea more than doubled compared with pre-pandemic levels. About 4,000 Russian tourists visited North Korea last year under organized travel arrangements.
Meanwhile, officials estimate that roughly 7,000 Russian visitors will travel to North Korea this year. This increase reflects steady demand growth driven by improved transport links and targeted tourism offerings.
The minister attributed rising interest to the Masikryong ski resort, which has attracted winter sports travelers. He also cited the newly opened Wonsan Kalma coastal region as a major draw for leisure tourism.
Therefore, tourism cooperation increasingly emphasizes curated destination experiences rather than large-scale mass tourism. Officials believe this approach aligns with infrastructure capacity and visitor expectations.
Analysts note that tourism development also supports regional economies and generates foreign currency revenue. Moreover, the sector offers a politically manageable avenue for expanding bilateral engagement amid external constraints.
Despite infrastructure and regulatory challenges, Kozlov expressed confidence that visitor numbers will continue rising in 2026. He highlighted North Korea’s cultural heritage and natural landscapes as underutilized assets.
Looking ahead, officials plan to coordinate seasonal travel packages and marketing strategies. Ultimately, tourism cooperation reflects a pragmatic effort to strengthen bilateral ties through controlled economic collaboration.
