Passenger train services between China and North Korea are scheduled to resume operations this week, marking the end of a six-year suspension that was imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to travel operators. The resumption follows strict border closures implemented by both nations in 2020 to curb the spread of the virus.
Ticket Sales and Initial Services
Travel agents at official ticketing booths in Beijing and the Chinese border city of Dandong reported on Tuesday that Chinese citizens working and studying in North Korea are now able to purchase train tickets, with the first service departing on Thursday. Additionally, North Koreans employed, studying, or visiting family abroad are eligible to buy tickets, though tourists remain excluded from this initial phase.
Industry Reactions and Confirmation
Rowan Beard, tours manager at Young Pioneer Tours, expressed enthusiasm about the development, stating to Agence France-Presse, "It's great to see the international train service resuming." He confirmed that his company, which specialises in travel to North Korea, can organise tickets starting from Thursday. Beard noted that while the service is not initially intended for tourists, it will provide an alternative travel option once tourism to North Korea eventually returns, supplementing existing flight options.
Official Responses and Regional Context
China's foreign ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, did not confirm the reports when questioned by reporters at a media briefing on Tuesday. Meanwhile, South Korea's unification ministry issued a statement indicating that they understand the Pyongyang-Beijing international train service is set to resume operations on March 12, and they will continue to monitor related developments closely.
Historically, China has been North Korea's primary supporter and a crucial economic lifeline for its struggling economy. However, in recent times, Pyongyang has strengthened its ties with Russia, particularly since the onset of the Ukraine war, indicating a shift in diplomatic alignments.
Mixed Signals from North Korean Authorities
North Korea's reclusive government has sent mixed signals regarding further openings. On Monday, Koryo Tours announced that North Korea had cancelled an international marathon in Pyongyang, originally scheduled for early next month, citing an official statement that provided no explanation for the decision. The company described the cancellation as unexpected and suggested that the decision was made at a higher level than the event organisers.
The marathon is the largest international sporting event in North Korea, offering visitors a rare opportunity to run through the tightly controlled streets of Pyongyang, making its cancellation a notable development amid the resumption of train services.
Background and Implications
The halt in train journeys between China and North Korea in 2020 was part of broader border closures aimed at preventing virus transmission. While China has since fully reopened its borders, North Korea has proceeded more cautiously, though direct flights and train services with Russia resumed last year. The resumption of train services with China is seen as a significant step in easing North Korea's isolation, potentially impacting economic and diplomatic dynamics in the region.
