Kids and nukes: Tourists stunned by surreal scenes on first NK trip in years

For the first time since 2020, North Korea has allowed a small group of Western tourists to visit, offering them a highly controlled yet unsettling experience. The trip, organized by Young Pioneer Tours, took visitors to the remote Rason region, where they witnessed surreal performances, crumbling infrastructure, and an ever-present system of government surveillance.

Missile displays and strict surveillance

One of the most shocking moments of the visit came during a school performance, where young North Korean children sang and danced against a projection of ballistic missiles striking buildings. The carefully choreographed display was just one of many eerie experiences for the visitors, who were strictly monitored throughout their four-day stay.

Tourists were required to follow a strict set of rules, including avoiding criticism of the country’s leaders and ideology. Even the simplest actions—like asking to use the bathroom—had to be cleared with their government minders.

A country frozen in time

The trip reinforced the stark contrast between North Korea’s official propaganda and its reality. Tourists noted the poor road conditions, wobbly sidewalks, and outdated hotel decor, which one visitor described as looking like “his grandma’s living room.” The lack of cell service, ATMs, and internet access made it clear how cut off the country remains from the rest of the world.

Despite the heavy restrictions, some tour organizers believe these trips offer valuable cultural exchanges. Greg Vaczi from Koryo Tours argued that interacting with foreigners allows North Koreans to gain new perspectives in a country where outside influences are almost nonexistent.

The future of North Korean tourism

While this trip marked the first time tourists were allowed back into North Korea in five years, it remains unclear if the country will open up further. With the regime still tightly controlling its image, future visits will likely be just as orchestrated as this one, leaving tourists with a glimpse of the country—but only on its terms.