Koryo Tours

Koryo Tours is a specialist travel agency based in Beijing, China, that organizes group and individual tours to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea). Founded in 1993, it is one of the oldest and most prominent companies operating in this niche sector, facilitating travel for thousands of foreign visitors. The company is known for its focus on cultural exchange and for organizing unique events, such as the Pyongyang International Film Festival and sports matches. Its operations are conducted in partnership with the state-run Korea International Travel Company.

History

Koryo Tours was established in 1993 by British entrepreneur Nicholas Bonner and later joined by Simon Cockerell, who became its long-term General Manager. The company began during a period of relative isolation for North Korea following the Cold War and the death of Kim Il Sung. Initially focusing on small-scale tourism from Beijing, it expanded its offerings as international interest grew. The firm played a pivotal role in co-producing the documentary The Game of Their Lives, which chronicled the 1966 FIFA World Cup performance of the North Korea national football team. Its early work in film and sports diplomacy helped establish its reputation beyond standard tour operations.

Services and tours

The company operates a wide array of scheduled and custom tours, primarily entering North Korea via Air Koryo flights from Beijing or by train across the border at Dandong. Standard itineraries include visits to major sites in Pyongyang such as the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the Juche Tower, and the Mangyongdae Native House. Specialized tours extend to locations like Mount Paektu, the Sinchon Museum, and the city of Kaesong. Beyond sightseeing, it organizes events like the Pyongyang Marathon, Arirang Festival tickets, and football exchanges with local clubs. All tours are accompanied by guides from the Korean International Travel Company and follow strict protocols set by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Cultural and educational impact

Koryo Tours has significantly influenced foreign perception through its emphasis on people-to-people contact and cultural projects. It was instrumental in founding the Pyongyang International Film Festival, bringing international cinema to North Korea and showcasing North Korean films abroad. The company has facilitated numerous documentary projects, including A State of Mind and Crossing the Line. It also sponsors academic exchanges and has hosted delegations from institutions like the British Council and various universities. These efforts aim to provide a platform for cultural dialogue beyond mainstream media narratives centered on the Korean People's Army and nuclear program of North Korea.

Controversies and regulations

Operating within the tightly controlled North Korean tourism sector, the company navigates complex international regulations and periodic diplomatic tensions. Its tours have been affected by incidents such as the detention of Otto Warmbier and travel bans imposed by governments including the United States Department of State. The company strictly adheres to local laws, prohibiting unauthorized photography or deviation from itineraries, and has faced criticism for potentially normalizing the regime of Kim Jong Un. It maintains that its tours are apolitical and educational, operating under licenses from the United Nations Security Council and in compliance with sanctions against North Korea that exempt humanitarian and cultural exchanges.

Publications and media

Beyond tour operations, Koryo Tours produces extensive media content to document its experiences. It has published several photographic books, such as DPRK and The People's Republic of Korea, which offer visual insights into daily life. The company runs a popular blog and podcast series discussing travel logistics and cultural observations. Its work has been featured in major international outlets like The Guardian, BBC News, and National Geographic. These publications serve as educational resources for researchers and travelers interested in the society and architecture of the isolated nation.

Category:Tourism in North Korea Category:Travel companies of China Category:Companies established in 1993