North Korea has successfully revived the Pyongyang International Marathon after a six-year hiatus, attracting around 200 foreign runners to its capital. The event, which first began in 1981, is traditionally held every April to commemorate the birthday of the nation’s founding leader, Kim Il Sung. The last marathon took place in 2019, prior to the country closing its borders due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As North Korea gradually reopens, the marathon has returned under strict regulations, with entrants required to participate through organized tour groups. Koryo Tours, based in Beijing, promotes marathon tours priced at 2,195 euros (approximately $2,406), which includes flights from Beijing. On its website, the agency describes the marathon as a “unique experience” that offers participants a chance to interact with North Korean locals.
The marathon route showcased iconic city landmarks, including the Kim Il Sung Stadium and the Arch of Triumph, with participants starting and finishing at the stadium, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators waving gold paper flags. One North Korean runner, Pak Kum Dong, expressed the motivation he felt from the crowd, stating that their support helped him push through fatigue.
The event comes amid North Korea’s cautious reopening, which started in mid-2023. Although the country has only allowed a limited number of tourists and has previously suspended tours due to security concerns, the successful staging of the marathon is a positive sign of gradual reintegration into the global community.
This revival of the marathon not only marks a significant cultural moment for North Korea but also highlights the potential for greater international engagement and tourism, fostering connections between cultures despite existing political tensions.
While there are no official race results available at this moment, the successful execution of the marathon bodes well for future events, providing a platform for peace and understanding.
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