North Korea is preparing to resume passenger train service connecting Pyongyang and Beijing after six years, with the first trip set for 12 March. This aims to restore transportation and stimulate economic relations with allied countries.
South Korea's Ministry of Unification stated that North Korea and China are preparing to reopen the Pyongyang-Beijing rail service within this week, ending a six-year suspension since the outbreak of COVID-19.
The reopening of this route marks the restoration of a key transport link between the important economic allies North Korea and China, following North Korea's strict border closures since early 2020. Chinese railway authorities told the media that the Pyongyang-Beijing train will commence service on Thursday, 12 March, operating four times weekly.
However, at the start of the resumed service, passenger numbers will be limited, and only the last two carriages of the train will be available for passengers. Most travelers will be diplomats or officials on government missions, while tickets for the general public may be considered for sale later if seats remain available.
Currently, North Korea remains closed and maintains strict limits and screening of tourists, making foreign travel into North Korea difficult, except for certain tourist groups from Russia who have special agreements with the North Korean government.
Tour operators organizing trips to North Korea report that before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese tourists were the largest group visiting North Korea.
Additionally, North Korean media reported that authorities have announcedthe cancellation of the "Pyongyang Marathon"scheduled for next month, as announced yesterday (9 March), without specifying reasons. This marathon is one of the few events that allow international participants to travel to North Korea to join.
. Source:CNA
Read more newsNorth Korea