A Historic Return

Launched in 1981, the marathon hasn’t been held since 2019. The pause coincided with the onset of the global pandemic, effectively sealing North Korea off from the outside world. The return of the marathon represents a cautious signal of shifting priorities – a deliberate attempt to showcase the nation and, potentially, to attract tourism.

Accessing the Event: A Unique Travel Experience

Participation in the Pyongyang Marathon isn’t a casual endeavor. Runners must travel through an organized tour group, typically facilitated by agencies like Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based operator. The journey includes a six-day tour, costing approximately €2,195 ($2,406), which covers flights to and from Beijing and accommodation within North Korea.

“The Pyongyang Marathon is an extremely unique experience as it provides an opportunity to interact with locals,” Koryo Tours stated on its website.

The route takes runners past key landmarks, including the Kim Il Sung Stadium, a monumental structure that serves as the race’s starting and finishing point; the Arch of Triumph, commemorating Kim Il Sung’s role in resisting Japanese forces; and Mirae Future Scientists’ Street, a residential area dedicated to the nation’s scientists and engineers.

(Image placeholder: Image of Kim Il Sung Stadium filled with spectators)

Local Support and Reflections

Spectators played a vital role in fueling the runners’ efforts. Reports indicate that the support of North Korean citizens, many waving gold-colored paper flags, provided crucial motivation. As Pak Kum Dong, a North Korean participant, relayed to Reuters, “The eyes of our people on me helped me to bear the difficulties whenever I feel tired.”

Notably, details regarding race results remain unpublished, highlighting the controlled nature of the event and the limited information released to the outside world. Following a period of relaxed Covid-19 restrictions in mid-2023, North Korea recently allowed some Western tourists to visit the remote eastern city of Rason, only to subsequently suspend those tours less than a month later.

Key Facts

• Event Return: Six years after last holding the marathon in 2019.
• Historical Significance: Launched in 1981 to celebrate Kim Il Sung’s birthday.
• Participation: Approximately 200 foreign runners participated in the recent event.
• Travel Restrictions: Runners must join organized tour groups.
• Tour Cost: Approximately €2,195 ($2,406) including flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I participate in the Pyongyang Marathon? You must join an organized tour group, typically through agencies like Koryo Tours.
• What is the cost of participating? The cost varies, but typically around €2,195 ($2,406) including flights and accommodation.
• Are race results publicly available? No, race results have not been publicly released.
• Why was the marathon paused for so long? The marathon was paused due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent border restrictions.

Did You Know?

The Pyongyang Marathon is considered one of the most unique and challenging races globally, offering participants a firsthand glimpse into a nation largely shielded from the outside world. The event serves as a carefully constructed representation of North Korea’s political and social landscape.