North Korea to restart international tourism in December. Should you go?
North Korea will resume international tourism to its northeastern city of Samjiyon in December, and possibly the rest of the country, tour companies said.
The move is a sign that the reclusive country is preparing to reopen borders to bigger groups of foreign tourists after years of strict COVID-19 border controls.
"We have received confirmation from our local partner that tourism to Samjiyon and likely the rest of the country will officially resume in December 2024," the Beijing-based Koryo Tours said on its website.
International flights in and out of North Korea resumed last year and a small group of Russian tourists flew to North Korea for a private tour in February. Top foreign officials, including Russian President Vladimir Putin in June, have been visiting the country.
But North Korea has not been fully open to international tourists since 2020.
"Having waited for over four years to make this announcement, Koryo Tours is very excited for the opening of North Korean tourism once again," the firm said, adding its local partner would confirm itineraries and dates in coming weeks.
The State Department still has a Level 4 "do not travel" advisory for U.S. citizens considering a visit to North Korea, saying there is a "serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals."
North Korea has been building what it called a "socialist utopia" in Samjiyon, a city near the Chinese border, and "a model of highly civilized mountain city" with new apartments, hotels, a ski resort and commercial, cultural and medical facilities.
Leader Kim Jong Un in July fired or demoted some senior officials for their "irresponsible" handling of his flagship Samjiyon project.
Another travel agency, KTG Tours, also announced that tourists would be able to go to Samjiyon this winter.
Contributing: Zach Wichter
- Travel and Accommodation
ASA Holidays - good or bad?
- Thread starter Human A
- Start date Sep 15, 2010
More options
Junior member.
- Sep 15, 2010
guys, any of you here been on tour with ASA Holidays? esp their tour to korea. good or bad, please tell me more!
Human A said: guys, any of you here been on tour with ASA Holidays? esp their tour to korea. good or bad, please tell me more! Click to expand...
kennylow1976
- Sep 23, 2010
hmm i am not sure.. i only been to tour with new shan travel if not i will usually go for free and easy de.. http://tour.newshan.com/PackageList.aspx?Country=KR&City=ALL i usually check wego.com to compare the tour packages n airfares if not you can check out the www.travelagents.com.sg/
- Jul 7, 2011
hi pple wad attracts me to asa is becos they usually include an "exclusive" in their tours. they acually include someting tat other agencies dun include, thus giving them an edge over competitors. Eg: 3 yrs back when i joined their korea package, they had a submarine ride. Their three gorges package include nite's stay at chongqing's hongyadong hotel (a unique hotel structure). their usa & canada package includes a gondola ride to mont tremblant. experience wif them is "so far" quite pleasant - experienced tour leads.
darklighter
Senior member.
snowbun why bother replying a thread from 2010..? BTW i just came back from korea with ASA last month, the submarine tour made every one seasick and there wasn't much marine life to see. the commentator was showing us volcanic rocks... ASA has good coverage of korea is all i can say. whether it's the standard of korea itself or our tour guide brought us to the lousier places, ultimately korea is not as glamourous as the media presents
- Jul 13, 2011
abt e submarine... hrmm., i muz say i was abit disappointed too... cos e water wasn't tat clear... hardly any fishes ard... it was more of an experience thou... tats e adventure of travelling - venturing new grounds, hike mountains, shopping trips, trying out new tings. althou new tings may not neccessarily be good... for the korea tour, the tour guide brot us to a pharmacy to buy sea-sick plasters. These dot plasters can be stuck behind e ears of sumone prone to sea-sickness or altitude-sickness, even motion sickness. I tink it werks, non of our tour mbrs felt unwell after e submarine ride.
i went with ASA to korea in mid april. service was gd. food and accomodation met my expectations. it's a quality trip. but the submarine tour was crap. well it's nt bcoz there's sth wrong with the itinenary or what. idk is it bcoz of japan's tsunami.but all i saw was cloudy water n lol a few fishes n some crappy corals tt are quite plain. i cant be bothered to take any pictures(while idk y other ppl r clicking away). it's totally diff from the pictures i saw at the submarine ticketing station. i went to search on youtube,the submarine tour videos posted were beautiful! clear blue waters with schools of fishes and colourful corals. n.... it was exactly the same yellow submarine. irony huh? perhaps ASA could hv done better by checking the sea conditions first before bringing the tour grp over. n i tink it's quite hard to get seasick bcoz it only submerge into the sea n the ferry we took to the submarine location was like those penguin ferrys to batam. oh ya n jeju wasn't as beautiful as the jeju i saw on tv. mayb coz we didn't go to the beautiful places in jeju. the sunrise peak was zzz. nt as beautiful as shown in pictures. the sakura was also zzz. dk y diff from those places in korean dramas. nt much scenery involved in the itinenary.scenery in Taiwan multiple times better.
- Jul 14, 2011
i tink it could be becos e submarine didnt go into deeper waters... i mean deeper waters = less ventured = more corals rite mb tats e agreement asa had wif the company... cheaper tat way... touch & go... they do not bother whether u have quality time or experience there anot.. as consumers, we can oni console ourselves tat "its an experience" my experience 3 decembers ago, the waters were unclear n rather chalky too... mb tats e quality of the water there... seriously, korea has been overly rated by some die-hard korean fans & drama serials... scenery, cuisine, spa, shopping, activities etc - noting to shout about. in fact, i won't consider goin there a second time
wah rly like tt ah. then i rather they spend the timing going to tt crappy submarine tour on shopping or free time instead. yea shopping wise= lots of fashionable clothes. but prices are like our bugis street or more exp. quality wise better. hmm i will consider going korea 2nd time. but most prob for its winter and free n easy instead. though language is a huge barrier. hahaha cuisine wise not bad. i love their bbq pork n steamboat. yummy =O
snowbun said: seriously, korea has been overly rated by some die-hard korean fans & drama serials... scenery, cuisine, spa, shopping, activities etc - noting to shout about. in fact, i won't consider goin there a second time Click to expand...
snowbun said: food wise is good - but perhaps i'm not really a meat eater... so after so many days of bbq pork.. bbq chicken... i'm really quite sick of it... Click to expand...
iminalost.... u make fun of me huh... perhaps we r quite spoilt cos we r exposed to so many varieties of food in sin... so day in, day out eat bbq meat wif kimchis can really bore me... on e other hand, cos we r on a travel package... e kind food served can be really limited.... ve seen korean tv programmes, where they serve so many types of shellfish (bbq style, sashimi style)etc
- Jul 15, 2011
lol coz ur display pic has pandas. agree with what u've said!
hypertrophy
Master member.
- Jul 16, 2011
Thought I was the only one who don't really like korea. I've been to Japan and Australia and its unforgettable.. Korea was so-so, I went to jeju as well but nothing too memorable except that the sweet potato was selling for 5bucks each. I love their sweet potato ice cream though
- Jul 18, 2011
yah.. tot i was e oni one who didnt find korea trip "memorable"... not tat e trip is extremely bad, juz tat i wun consider goin there again lor.. (unless there's really no where else to go)
- Aug 6, 2011
Richard Yeo
- Jun 4, 2017
Fully agreed . ASA tours are lousy. A lot of hidden costs. Bad tour guides. Shady hotels. Etc.
Supremacy Member
- Jun 9, 2017
I have travelled a few times with ASA. All experiences were good.
The South of Seoul Blog
Living Your Best Life in South Korea
Top 10 Things to do in Asan-si
The top 10 Things To Do Asan-si include indoor and outdoor activities. Perfect for families, outdoor lovers, and culture lovers.
About Asan- Si
Asan Municipal City (Asan-si / 아산시) in South Chungcheong Province or Chungcheongnam-do, includes Onyang and Asan County. Asan is bordered by Pyeongtaek-si, to the North, Dangjin-si, in the North West, Yesan County, in the West, Cheonan-si, in the East, and Gongju, in the South.
The area of Asan includes many farms, orchards, small mountains, and beautiful rural areas. It’s an excellent spot to visit epic cafes, relax in space, and photograph nature.
Family Time in Asan-si
Families may love bringing their toddlers or strollers to some of these activities. US Military stationed at Camp Humphreys will find perfect activities for their next day trips as most locations in Asan-si are only about 30-minutes to an hour away from their base located in Pyeongtaek, South Korea.
Top Ten Things To Do in Asan-si
1. asan spas.
The administrative district of Asan is known for its many hot springs, including spas in the previous neighboring village, Onyang-dong. Asan has a variety of spas but families tend to prefer Paradise Spa Dogo for the litter ones and Asan Spavis for the older kids.
Paradise Spa Dogo 0
Paradise Spa Dogo offers pools, saunas, facials, massages, etc.
Hangul Address
176-1 Dogo spa-ro, Seonjang-myeon
(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)
Asan Spavis 5
041-539-2000
Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions
This is a resort style spa with restaurants, a water park and facilities for other sports like badminton and snow sledding. Cultural Notes for Outdoor Swimming Pools: Thank you for understanding this is a Korean outdoor pool. They do not cater to foreigners. You will be expected to follow Korean customs when visiting. To enjoy the experience leave behind your expectations of home and be open to experiencing something new. Here are some basic rules to help you be successful: - Wearing bikinis or revealing clothing is not appropriate. Swimming shorts and t-shirts and full coverage suites are best. These can be found at Lotte Mart, E Mart or Home Plus. - Baseball caps or swimming caps are REQUIRED for ALL people in the pool. This helps keep the pool clean. You will not be allowed to play in the pool without them. - Consider your noise level. Try to avoid taking over the space. Be considerate of others around you. Numerous food locations and shops on site. Including a shot for swim wear. Discounted entry fee for Asan and Cheonan residents.
충남 아산시 음봉면 아산온천로157번길 67
2. Sinjeong Lake
Easily one of the most frequented destinations in Asan because it’s surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and activities. We also have other blogs for the many cafes that surround the lake as well as other activities around the lake .
Sinjeong Lake 5
041-540-2518
Whether you want to enjoy a nice walk at any time of day, during any season, this is the place. Surrounded by many restaurants and cafes with great views is this 4.8 K walk/run which includes sculpture parks, water park, exercise areas, and numerous scenic spots.
충청남도 아산시 방축동 467-3
3. Asan Gingko Tree Road (은행나무길)
A popular favorite for autumn colors, Asan Gingko Tree Road is a lovely, shaded walk throughout most of the year. You’ll find cafes and restaurants, as well as street food trucks along the way. Separate bike trail for those who prefer to ride, bike rentals available. Dog-friendly.
Asan Ginkgo Tree Road 5
Asan Ginkgo Tree Road is a lovely walk, especially for watching the leaves change color in Autumn. You will find cafes, convenience store, and even a shrine along the walk. Various places to park along the walk but the roads may be tight.
충청남도 아산시 염치읍 백암리 243-2
4. Hyeonchungsa Shrine
Hyeonchungsa Shrine , a gorgeous location for fall colors, includes Admiral Yi Sun-sin Memorial Hall, Shrine, and former place of residence. This location 300-year-old zelkova tree next to a beautiful pond. Perfect place to relax.
Hyeonchungsa Shrine 5
041-539-4600
"Asan yeomchieup (鹽峙邑) baekamri (白岩里) Admiral Yi (in the李舜臣shrine). It is Historic Site No. 155. In 1865 (Gojong 2) Daewongun (大in Temple Kimi ) was temporarily abolished for 20 years in the oppression of Japanese imperialism. In 1932, the Dong-A Ilbo was organized, and donations from the people were collected to repair Hyeonchungsa and enshrin it again, and in 1962, a relic exhibition hall was built. In addition, there were 66 years seongyeokhwa expanded gyeongyeok of Hyeonchungsa, on the grounds of the completion of the main hall 67 (本殿), gotaek (古宅), front door (旌門), Hall, remains hwalteo been provided with such. In 1969, the Hyeonchungsa Management Office was established to manage management and festivals. ① Relics Exhibition Hall: 150 pyeong in total. Photos of relics, ruins granite building, turtle model, "Lanzhou Weather (亂Candles Japan記)" books Espionage ( What to do next簡帖) and "Imjin (壬辰狀Asakusa )", Sword ( Hase-劍), mugwa geupje teachings , phloem suicide (賜符諭書), stock market teachings (贈諡敎旨), Gyokuro (玉鷺), bombard (桃盃), Girdle (腰帶is preserved as various inorganic) a. ② Chungmu door ( loyalty Moo Gate ): the main entrance of the Hyeonchungsa. ③ Hongsalmun: The gate built at the entrance of Hyeonchungsa Temple is also called Hongmun. ④ Chunguimun: The gate leading to the main hall of Hyeonchungsa where the portrait of Admiral Yi Sun-sin is enshrined. ⑤ Main Hall: A total of 62 pyeong. This is a Korean-style blue tile and reinforced concrete building that enshrined the portrait of Admiral Yi Sun-sin. ⑥ Old house: The house where Yi Sun-sin spent his childhood, childhood, and youth. Front Chungmu information ( loyalty Moo井have). ⑦ rouge (蓮Pond ): a pond placed in the newly created Hyeonchungsa grounds."
충청남도 아산시 염치읍 백암리 286-1
5. Learn About Traditional Korean History and Culture
Learn about Korean culture from traditional food to artwork . The location also includes a cafe and beautiful shaded nature walks that contain a pond and pavilion.
Oeam Folk Village 4
This is a lovely Cultural Village that looks at what was like long ago in Korea. Check out traditional buildings, play traditional games, and watch regularly scheduled performances. These villages are designed to help bring history alive for Koreans and foreigners alike.
충남 아산시 송악면 외암로 1030-14
6. First Village (Outlet Mall, Food, & Entertainment)
Whether you want to shop, eat, or entertain the kids, you’ll find something at this small outlet mall.
First Village Outlet Mall 5
041-536-0500
SWIPE LEFT on the banner to watch a video and see if its a MATCH with what you like to do! It sounds weird to have to say say this, but these are not western stores. A lot of visitors are shocked when they go to a mall in Korea and its filled with products marketed to Korean people. We love it though and its worth checking out!
대한민국 충청남도 아산시 둔포면 신항리 17-3
7. Visit Asan’s Beautiful Arboretums
Yeongingsan Mountain Forest, Museum, and Arboretum – Lengthy mountain hikes with a number of amazing views of Asan-si, including ponds, playgrounds, and sports.
Yeonginsan Natural Forest 5
A beautiful national forest near Camp Humphreys with both easy walks for families and longer hikes for those looking for a work out. There is also have a fun zip line.
충남 아산시 염치읍 백암리
Pinnacle Land Arboretum – Short, stroller-friendly walk with a cafe, goats, alpacas, chickens, flower shops, and a waterfall. Great location to visit during tulip and chrysanthemum seasons. Discounted entrance fee if you live in Asan-si.
Pinnacle Land 5
0507-1495-2584
A gorgeous garden that winds up a small mountain. Waterfall and observatory at the top. Sculpture park throughout. Cafe and event room at the entrance. Adults W8,000, W5,000 if you live in Asan. Stroller friendly.
충남 아산시 영인면 월선길 20-42
8. Asan Rail Bikes
Perfect outdoor activity for couples, friends, and families.
Asan Rail Bikes 4
0507-1433-7882
Railbikes are fun rides that happen around Korea. Guest pedal bikes that ride on a closed line of railroad tracks. Usually 2-4 people pedal together through a scenic area. This particular are is very kid friendly, but also great for a date. Prices: 2 people 25,000 won 3 people 29,000 won 4 people 33,000 won
충남 아산시 도고면 아산만로 199-7
9. Watch a Kleague2 Soccer Game (Mugunghwa) or Women’s basketball game (WooriWon)
Asan’s K League 2 team (충남아산프로축구단) plays at Admiral Yi Sun-Shin sports complex. Lots of room for those concerned about socially distancing. You may purchase tickets at the main ticket office on the day of the event. Beers stands and food trucks with chicken, squid, fries, and ramyun. Make sure that you pick up a foldable team roster at the entrance so that you can cheer to The White Stripe’s “Seven Nation Army”.
10. Ice Skating
Great way to spend those hot summer months, go ice skating at Yi Sun-Shin Ice Rink. Closed Mondays, otherwise open from 0900 to 1800 on weekdays, to 2000 on weekends.
Transportation to Asan
KTX high speed trains takes about 30 minutes to travel from Cheonan-Asan Station to Seoul. Seoul Metropolitan Subway includes service to Asan. The Seoul-Busan and West Coast expressways, also pass through Asan city.
LeaDan Yee holds a Master’s in Education with a focus in Secondary Education and Teaching – Language Arts and Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Speech.
As a Cultural Liaison and Content Creator at South of Seoul, Ms. Yee focuses on creating content for families interested in traveling and those with toddlers. She is especially interested in opportunities to share her Native Hawaiian background and empower others to be cultural ambassadors.
Prior to joining South of Seoul, LeaDan worked as a High School Speech Teacher and Adjunct Communications Professor. She specializes in Public Speaking, Argumentation and Debate, Team Management, and Event Planning.
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