North Korea Revives International Marathon After Six-Year Hiatus

The Pyongyang International Marathon returned this year, inviting both local and international participants back to the streets of North Korea’s capital for the first time since 2019.

 

North Korea has marked the return of the Pyongyang International Marathon, hosting around 200 foreign runners in the capital for the first time in six years. The marathon, which initially began in 1981, has been a yearly event aimed at commemorating the birth of the late leader Kim Il Sung. Though the event was last held in 2019 with nearly 1,000 foreign participants, the country clamped down on international travel the following year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

As North Korea cautiously emerges from its isolation, organized tours have made it possible for foreign runners to participate, with Koryo Tours, a travel agency based in Beijing, offering special marathon packages that include flights and accommodations for a fee of approximately 2,195 euros ($2,406).

During the marathon, runners traversed notable city landmarks such as the Kim Il Sung Stadium and the Arch of Triumph, alongside local spectators waving flags in support. Pak Kum Dong, a participant from North Korea, expressed how the presence of local supporters invigorated him throughout the race.

Despite the thrilling atmosphere, detailed results from the race remain undisclosed. The 2023 marathon signifies a cautious step towards rekindling international engagement as North Korea began relaxing its strict Covid-19 measures earlier this year, albeit with a limited welcoming of foreign tourists.