Table of Contents
Can people freely travel to North Korea?
In principle, any person is allowed to travel to North Korea; only South Koreans and journalists are routinely denied, although there have been some exceptions for journalists.
What countries can visit North Korea?
Holders of diplomatic or service passports issued to nationals of the following countries can visit North Korea without a visa:
- Albania.
- Belarus.
- Bulgaria.
- China.
- Cuba.
- Indonesia.
- India.
- Iran.
Can you go on holiday if you live in North Korea?
The North Korean government does not countenance its citizens going abroad without its permission. The elite are no exception to this rule. In some cases, being elite can make it harder to go abroad.
How can I travel to North Korea without a visa?
As of 2 July 2019, North Korean citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 39 countries and territories, ranking the North Korean passport 101st in terms of travel freedom, tied with passports issued by Bangladesh, Eritrea, Iran and Lebanon according to the Henley Passport Index. May apply online (Online Visitor e600 visa).
Can I enter North Korea from South Korea without special validation?
Note: you cannot enter North Korea through the Demilitarized Zone from South Korea. If you enter North Korea without a special validation: the Department of State can revoke your passport for misuse under 22 C.F.R. 51.62 (a) (2).
Can a US citizen get legal protection in North Korea?
The North Korea legal system is an instrument of state power and not an independent branch of the government. Protections guaranteed under the U.S. legal system do not apply, and your U.S. passport does not confer special status. Your local host/liaison may be able to provide useful guidance.
How many countries can you travel with a North Korean passport?
North Koreans (at least, those with permission to travel) have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 42 countries. This makes a North Korean passport as versatile as that of Ethiopia!