Masik Pass welcomed tourists back to the slopes in February, marking the first time since the start of the corona pandemic. The area boasts several slopes, a luxury hotel, rental offices, and restaurants, making it a complete ski destination. However, the region is considered too expensive for North Koreans and is restricted to only a few wealthy Russians selected by the regime. Despite these restrictions, more than 200 Russian tourists have visited North Korea this year for skiing trips in February and March. These tours are closely monitored by secret agents due to the complex relationship between North Korea and Russia, particularly in terms of weapon supply agreements. North Korea supplies weapons to Russia in exchange for food, raw materials, and weapon production parts, circumventing international sanctions. In a gesture of gratitude towards Russian President Putin, Kim Jong-un has opened the country’s borders to Russian tourists albeit with strict screening processes and financial requirements.
Russian tourists can participate in group tours to Masik Pass which include flights, accommodation meals and ski passes. The journey begins with a flight from Vladivostok to Pyongyang followed by mandatory visits to squares and statues upon arrival. While the ski slopes in Masik Pass are in good condition; however, accommodation and equipment are considered substandard. Despite this fact both countries have ambitious plans for the future; with North Korea working on a new major ski resort that aims to attract more Russian tourists. Kim Jong-un envisions a resort that will have multiple hotels guesthouses shops catering specifically to tourists’ needs.
In conclusion, while the exclusive nature of these trips combined with strict regulations point towards an intriguing but complex ski tourism industry in North Korea; it’s also worth noting that these trips require financial means beyond most Russians’ reach which limits their accessibility for many people living within Russia’s borders.
