North Korea on Sunday, April 6, 2025, marked a significant return to international sporting events by hosting its first Pyongyang International Marathon in six years. This event, which attracted foreign runners from countries including China and Romania, comes after a lengthy period during which the country largely closed its borders due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to state media reports from the KCNA news agency and the Rodong Sinmun, around 200 foreign travelers arrived in Pyongyang on Friday, April 4, and Saturday, April 5, 2025, to participate in the marathon. Simon Cockerell, general manager at Beijing-based Koryo Tours, noted that these runners practiced at a hotel in Pyongyang leading up to the race.
Koryo Tours has been instrumental in facilitating the event as the official partner of the Pyongyang Marathon, assisting with the sign-up process for international participants. The marathon represents a significant moment for North Korea, which sealed its borders in 2020 at the onset of the pandemic but has been gradually lifting restrictions since 2023. While some Russian tourist groups have been allowed entry, regular tourism to the capital remains restricted.
The marathon course is designed as a return route that winds through central Pyongyang, allowing runners to pass several notable landmarks before heading into the picturesque countryside just outside the city center. The race culminates at a stadium filled with approximately 50,000 spectators, creating a vibrant atmosphere for both participants and local onlookers. Cockerell shared images on social media showcasing the streets of Pyongyang and the recreational areas where runners prepared for the event.
During the race, a crowd of North Koreans, some wearing masks, greeted the runners enthusiastically. Foreign participants took the opportunity to capture the moment, snapping photos of the spectators with their mobile phones. This interaction highlights a rare glimpse into the often-closed-off society of North Korea, where such events can serve as a bridge between the isolated nation and the outside world.
The Pyongyang International Marathon is not just a sporting event; it is also part of the celebrations leading up to the April 15 birthday of Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea and the grandfather of the current leader, Kim Jong Un. This occasion is marked by various festivities, and the marathon adds a unique element to the celebrations, showcasing the country's ability to host international events.
Despite the ongoing restrictions and the challenges posed by the pandemic, the successful execution of the marathon indicates North Korea's desire to re-engage with the global community. The event has drawn attention not only for its sporting aspect but also for its potential implications in terms of diplomacy and international relations.
As the world watches, the Pyongyang International Marathon symbolizes a cautious step towards normalcy in a country that has been largely isolated for years. It remains to be seen how this event will influence North Korea's future interactions with foreign nations and whether it will lead to further openings in tourism and cultural exchange.
With the marathon now underway, local media have yet to announce the victor, but the event itself has already made a significant impact. The return of foreign athletes to North Korea is a noteworthy development in the context of the country's gradual reopening strategy, and it reflects a broader trend of countries seeking to resume international engagements.
In summary, the Pyongyang International Marathon serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of sports in bridging divides and fostering connections across borders. As participants from different nations come together in the heart of North Korea, the event not only highlights athletic achievement but also the potential for cultural exchange and understanding in a world that often feels divided.
