North Korea has recently reopened its border to visitors, with the latest group of tourists being a contingent of 100 Russians. This move signifies a deepening relationship between North Korea and Russia, as the two nations have been strengthening ties in recent times. The reopening of the border comes after North Korea implemented stringent border controls at the onset of the pandemic, making it one of the most closed-off countries in the world.
The group of Russian tourists, believed to be the first visitors in years, arrived in North Korea on a vintage Russian plane operated by Air Koryo, the country's sole airline. This visit marks a significant development in North Korea's international relations, especially in light of the breakdown of diplomacy with the United States in 2019.
Observers suggest that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has shifted his focus towards bolstering his nuclear arsenal and strengthening ties with Moscow and Beijing. Russia has reportedly unfrozen millions of dollars in North Korean assets and is facilitating the country's access to international banking networks.
Local media reports indicate that this visit by Russian tourists could pave the way for a new phase in North Korea's nuclear ambitions, potentially involving collaboration with Russian experts in rocket technology. The tour by the Russian group underscores the broader geopolitical implications of the growing partnership between Russia and North Korea, which appears to be sidelining Western nations.
