North Korea has announced that it is allowing its citizens abroad to return home, indicating a potential easing of the country’s strict COVID-19 restrictions. The State Emergency Epidemic Prevention Headquarters made this announcement through a statement shared on state media. Upon their return, citizens will undergo a week-long medical observation period in quarantine wards.
This development marks the first time that North Koreans have been informed about the reopening of the country’s borders for its citizens since the start of the pandemic, as reported by NK News. The individuals primarily affected by the border closure were students and workers located in China and Russia, with the workers being a crucial source of foreign income for North Korea.
Since the onset of the pandemic, North Korea has implemented various measures such as banning tourists, evacuating diplomats, and significantly reducing border traffic and trade. These restrictions have exacerbated the country’s existing economic challenges and food insecurity issues.
Recently, South Korea’s spy agency revealed that North Korea is preparing for a gradual reopening of its borders as part of its efforts to revive its economy.
In a related event, a North Korean commercial jet made an unprecedented landing in Beijing, marking the country’s first commercial international flight in over three years. The details of the passengers on board remain undisclosed.
North Korea made a questionable claim in August 2022, asserting that it had successfully overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, in the following month, the country resumed freight train services with China, its largest trading partner and economic lifeline. However, many restrictions on individual border crossings have remained in place.
In conclusion, the announcement of North Korea allowing its citizens abroad to return home signifies a potential relaxation of the country’s COVID-19 restrictions. This decision holds significance for North Koreans residing overseas, particularly students and workers, as well as for the country’s economy. The reopening of borders and resumption of international flights reflect North Korea’s efforts to recover from the economic challenges brought about by the pandemic.
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