North Korea Revives International Marathon After Six-Year Hiatus

North Korea has successfully hosted the Pyongyang International Marathon for the first time in six years, inviting around 200 foreign participants to experience the capital's unique atmosphere.

North Korea has resumed its iconic Pyongyang International Marathon, first held in 1981, after a six-year pause due to the pandemic. The event took place on Sunday and featured about 200 foreign runners who entered the country through pre-arranged tour groups, a protocol reinstated since the pandemic outbreak. The race commemorates the birth of North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung, and showcases the nation’s landmarks, including Kim Il Sung Stadium and the Arch of Triumph. Travel agency Koryo Tours highlighted the marathon as a unique opportunity for participants to connect with locals. Local runner Pak Kum Dong expressed the profound motivation from supporters during the race, which remains shrouded in mystery as race results were not disclosed. North Korea began gradually lifting COVID-19 restrictions in mid-2023, with limited tourist access since then.