North Korea is opening its frontiers to surfing with three new tours organized by the government.
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has announced three surf resorts on the country's east coast: Songdowon, Lake Sijung, and Majon.
The government led by Kim Jong-un is trying to boost the revenues from tourism, and surfing is part of the plan. The Korea International Travel Company (KITC), controlled by the nation's tourism bureau, is organizing surfing tours to the best spots.
"The first surfing tourism ran between July 28 and August 6. North American surfers said they had a very good time in a bathing resort of the DPRK with fascinating scenery and refreshing environment," says an article published in the Pyongyang Times.
The state-controlled newspaper tells readers that Majon Beach, for example, pumps surfable waves "several meters high." Although these surf trips are not available to North Korean citizens, it will not take long before locals start learning how to ride waves.
North Korea is one of the most isolated countries in the world. Tourists are welcome, but they must be guided by official authorities. Uri Tours, Koryo Tours, and Young Pioneer Tours are the only foreign tour operators working in the country.
Learn more about the hidden surfing paradises of North Korea. With 2,495 kilometers (1,550 miles) of coastline, North Korea offers endless wave-riding opportunities.