North Korea held its first Pyongyang Marathon in six years on Sunday, and allowed foreigners to take part.
The marathon is one of several events celebrating the birthday of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea and the grandfather of current leader Kim Jong-un, on April 15.
Athletes from China, Ethiopia, Romania and Morocco participated. Photos from Pyongyang show foreign runners starting the race at Kim Il-sung Stadium, some taking pictures, while North Korean spectators cheer. Other photos show local and foreign runners competing further along the route.
Around 200 foreign visitors arrived in Pyongyang on Friday and Saturday, with participants conducting practice runs at their hotel accommodation before Sunday’s race, reported Simon Cockerell, general manager of Beijing-based Koryo Tours.
Koryo Tours, the official partner for the marathon, facilitated the registration process for international competitors.
The company described the race as a circuit course running through central Pyongyang, passing major landmarks before extending into rural areas and returning to a stadium filled with 50,000 spectators.
“The Pyongyang Marathon is an extremely unique experience as it provides an opportunity to interact with locals,” the Beijing-based firm said on its website. “An experience truly like no other.”
Mr Cockerell said: “North Korea is a complex and fascinating place that intrigues many people.”
He added: “And while it is certainly not for everyone, it definitely appeals to those curious about the experience of visiting such a country and seeing what they can.”
State television footage showed large crowds of North Koreans on Sunday – some wearing protective masks – greeting the runners upon their arrival at the stadium.
According to state media, a North Korean runner was the first to cross the finish line.
The last Pyongyang Marathon was in 2019 before North Korea closed its borders during the Covid pandemic.
The marathon represents a significant step in North Korea’s gradual reopening after sealing its borders completely in early 2020 at the beginning of ...
