North Korea and Russia Launch Joint Tourism Initiative with Enhanced New Transport Links and Infrastructure Development, Paving its Way for Long-Term Growth and Cultural Exchange

Published on December 28, 2025

In a significant turn of events in North Korea’s tourism sector, North Korea is working in partnership with Russia on new tourist projects aimed at promoting and increasing tourist traffic as well as enhancing connectivity in the region. Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources, Alexander Kozlov, announced these new tourist projects geared towards building tourist infrastructure that will benefit both Russian and North Korean tourists by working to upgrade connections and building new attractions. There is hope for a bright future in North Korea and Russia tourist collaborations.

The move comes after the successful initiation of a direct rail connection between Pyongyang and Moscow and a new air route between Pyongyang and Moscow. This is part of a move to increase tourist availability to visit North Korea, with Russians comprising most of the visitors to North Korea within the past years. As Russia is expected to continue being a crucial source of visitors to North Korea, the two countries will be laying a foundation for a sustainable tourist visit model.

Boosting Visitor Flows and Expanding Tourism Infrastructure

Minister Kozlov highlighted that tourists from Russia to North Korea have already doubled in number compared to pre-COVID levels. With about 4,000 Russian visitors in 2024 and an estimated 7,000 in 2025, the demand for travel between the two countries is growing rapidly. The surge in visitors is attributed to increased interest in the Masikryong ski resort and the newly opened Wonsan Kalma coastal region—both of which are prime eco-tourism and adventure tourism destinations. As demand increases, North Korea and Russia are working together to improve tourism infrastructure, ensuring that both newcomers and returning travelers have access to high-quality services during their visits.

A Long-Term Vision for Sustainable Tourism Growth

Looking ahead, North Korea and Russia’s tourism collaboration will have a long-term impact on the tourism industry in both countries. With improved infrastructure and transport options, tourists will have easier access to North Korean cultural sites, eco-tourism destinations, and outdoor activities like skiing and coastal tourism. The long-term strategy will focus on increasing capacity for international visitors and creating a sustainable tourism model that balances the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of natural and cultural resources.

Both countries are committed to building new tourism infrastructure that not only supports short-term tourism demand but also ensures long-term sustainability. With new attractions, improved transport systems, and stronger international partnerships, the future of North Korea’s tourism industry is set to evolve, attracting a growing number of global travelers and cultural tourists.

Cultural Tourism and the Rise of Cross-Border Travel

One of the key drivers of future tourism growth between North Korea and Russia will be cultural tourism. As more tourists visit North Korea, they will have the opportunity to explore ancient historical sites, such as the Masikryong ski resort, Wonsan Kalma coastal region, and the historical landmarks of Pyongyang, offering immersion in the country’s unique culture and heritage.

Cultural exchange between the two nations will also deepen as Russian tourists explore the local traditions of North Korea, while North Korean visitors will have greater access to Russia’s rich history and tourism offerings. This increased cultural tourism will help create new opportunities for both countries to engage with the global tourism market, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.

The future of tourism between North Korea and Russia will be characterized by a stronger focus on cultural exchange, and both nations are expected to develop innovative tourism offerings that draw international travelers interested in experiencing local traditions while promoting the regions’ eco-tourism potential.

A Bright Future for Regional Tourism in Northeast Asia

The growing tourism linkage between North Korea and Russia could serve as a model for further expanding regional tourism in Northeast Asia. As cross-border tourism continues to rise, North Korea’s tourism industry is likely to evolve into a key component of the broader East Asian tourism circuit. The development of new routes and tourism projects will connect Russia, China, and South Korea with North Korean cultural landmarks, creating a dynamic regional tourism market.

Increased tourism cooperation between Russia and North Korea could also pave the way for other countries in the region to engage in joint tourism ventures, further boosting travel and economic exchange. As North Korea and Russia expand their tourism infrastructure, this will enhance regional integration, increase cultural tourism, and attract more global tourists to explore Northeast Asia.

A New Era for North Korea-Russia Tourism Collaboration

The cooperation between the DPRK and the Russian Federation in the development of tourism programs presents a major opportunity in the growth of the tourism sector in both countries. In their efforts to promote transport connectivity, the development of tourism infrastructure, and cultural exchange, both states have embarked on a grand initiative in preparing the prerequisites for the successful growth of the tourism sector in the coming future.

As tourist movements between North Korea and Russia continue to rise, it looks set for a brighter future for tourism in Northeast Asia as both nations are poised to play vital roles in the rising wave of tourist ventures in the field of eco-tourism and cultural tourism in the world. The end result of such programs will be experienced not only in boosting tourism but also in the continued exchange in culture.