"Russian Tourists Return to North Korea: A Surreal Experience"

TL;DR Summary
North Korea has welcomed about 100 Russian tourists, marking the hermit kingdom's first international tourist trip since the pandemic. The tightly controlled tourism includes strict rules and minders, with revenue supporting the regime of dictator Kim Jong Un. Despite the risks, tourists visited landmarks and experienced the country's unique culture, but also noted discrepancies in the image presented to them. The visit reflects Russia's increasing interest in North Korea, raising concerns due to global sanctions and political tensions. The tourists hope to connect with local people, but acknowledge the challenges and limitations in doing so.
- Tourists have returned to North Korea for the first time since the pandemic. Here’s what they saw CNN
- 'The whole trip was a complete shock and surprise.' Radio Free Asia
- North Korea allows Russian tourists to visit country again since the pandemic - and first to have been say it' Daily Mail
- ‘It’s surreal’: Russian tourist describes experience visiting North Korea CNN
- Inside a Russian tourist trip to North Korea: Accordions, snowmobiles and an 'old' plane which 'smelled of mothballs' More Radio
Reading Insights
Total Reads
0
Unique Readers
1
Time Saved
5 min
vs 6 min read
Condensed
91%
1,016 → 95 words
Want the full story? Read the original article
Read on CNN