Marking its first event since 2019 due to Covid-19, North Korea celebrated the return of the Pyongyang International Marathon, offering foreign participants a unique glimpse into the country's vibrant spirit and culture.**
North Korea Hosts International Marathon After Six-Year Hiatus**
North Korea Hosts International Marathon After Six-Year Hiatus**
The Pyongyang International Marathon welcomed 200 foreign runners, resuming its celebrations six years after pandemic restrictions halted the event.**
North Korea has reintroduced the Pyongyang International Marathon, the first since 2019, inviting approximately 200 foreign runners to experience the capital's streets. This yearly event, initiated in 1981 to commemorate the birth of founding leader Kim Il Sung, had been paused after the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, with the last race held four years ago.
Participants traveled as part of organized tour groups, maintaining the traditional entry arrangements established prior to the pandemic. Koryo Tours, an exclusive partner for the marathon, offered six-day packages priced at 2,195 euros ($2,406), including flights to and from Beijing. The agency highlights the marathon as a chance to connect with locals, enhancing the unique nature of this experience.
During the marathon, runners traversed notable city landmarks such as the Kim Il Sung stadium, the Arch of Triumph—commemorating Kim Il Sung’s efforts against Japanese colonialism—and the Mirae Future Scientists' Street. Images from the event depicted a stadium filled with enthusiastic spectators, many waving gold paper flags while cheering on the competitors.
Pak Kum Dong, a North Korean athlete, expressed gratitude for the support he received from local crowds, stating, "The eyes of our people on me helped me to bear the difficulties whenever I feel tired." Meanwhile, specific race results have not been publicly disclosed.
North Korea has been gradually easing Covid-19 restrictions since mid-2023, with the recent allowance of limited tourism—initially permitting Russian visitors and later some Western tourists. However, these tours were suspended shortly after their introduction, illustrating the country’s cautious approach to reopening.
Participants traveled as part of organized tour groups, maintaining the traditional entry arrangements established prior to the pandemic. Koryo Tours, an exclusive partner for the marathon, offered six-day packages priced at 2,195 euros ($2,406), including flights to and from Beijing. The agency highlights the marathon as a chance to connect with locals, enhancing the unique nature of this experience.
During the marathon, runners traversed notable city landmarks such as the Kim Il Sung stadium, the Arch of Triumph—commemorating Kim Il Sung’s efforts against Japanese colonialism—and the Mirae Future Scientists' Street. Images from the event depicted a stadium filled with enthusiastic spectators, many waving gold paper flags while cheering on the competitors.
Pak Kum Dong, a North Korean athlete, expressed gratitude for the support he received from local crowds, stating, "The eyes of our people on me helped me to bear the difficulties whenever I feel tired." Meanwhile, specific race results have not been publicly disclosed.
North Korea has been gradually easing Covid-19 restrictions since mid-2023, with the recent allowance of limited tourism—initially permitting Russian visitors and later some Western tourists. However, these tours were suspended shortly after their introduction, illustrating the country’s cautious approach to reopening.
