North Korea To Allow Citizens Abroad To Return Home
COVID-19 Restrictions Ease
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August 28, 2023
North Korea revealed its decision on Sunday to permit its citizens currently residing abroad to return to the country as global pandemic conditions improve. This move comes as North Korea takes gradual steps to ease its stringent COVID-19 restrictions.
According to a concise statement released by the State Emergency Epidemic Prevention Headquarters and disseminated by state media, individuals returning to North Korea will be subjected to a mandatory week-long quarantine period for "proper medical observation."
Although the statement did not provide further details, analysts believe that this development will likely result in the repatriation of North Korean students, workers, and other residents who were compelled to stay abroad during the pandemic. Many of these individuals are primarily located in neighboring China and Russia. These overseas workers contribute significantly to North Korea's foreign income, making them a crucial economic asset for the country.
At the onset of the pandemic, North Korea swiftly implemented measures that included banning tourism, recalling diplomats, and drastically limiting cross-border traffic and trade. These restrictions compounded the nation's pre-existing economic challenges and food scarcity.
Recent reports from South Korea's intelligence agency suggest that North Korea is preparing for a gradual reopening of its borders as part of its strategy to rejuvenate its struggling economy.
Earlier this week, a North Korean commercial jet landed in Beijing, marking the nation's first international commercial flight in approximately three and a half years. Although the identity of the passengers onboard remains undisclosed, this development underscores North Korea's intent to resume international travel and engagement.
In a notable move earlier this month, a contingent of North Korean taekwondo athletes and officials journeyed to Beijing before boarding a flight to Kazakhstan to participate in an international competition. This marked the largest group of North Koreans traveling internationally since the pandemic's outbreak.