Travelling in North Korea: A Close Call with Danger
Short Description
Discover the harrowing tale of a traveler who faced potential imprisonment in North Korea while on a heartfelt mission to scatter his friend’s ashes.
Read Time
3 minutes, 45 seconds
Main Article
For adventurous souls, traversing the globe brings a wealth of experiences, but few compare to the stories born from visiting North Korea. Danish traveler Henrik Jeppesen, known for journeying to every UN-recognized country, shares a chilling account from his trip to the world’s most secretive state. Unlike most destinations, North Korea enforces strict rules, leaving little room for spontaneity. As a country where independent travel is forbidden, even minor infractions can lead to severe consequences, including arrest.
Henrik’s narrative centers around an emotional endeavor taken by his travel companion: to scatter the ashes of a deceased friend who had yearned to explore every nation. When they arrived at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), known for its historical significance and tension, Henrik’s companion sought to fulfill this tribute. Despite asking for permission from their state-approved guides—who firmly declined—Henrik’s companion proceeded to scatter the ashes in secret, documenting the act in a selfie video. This unassuming act of remembrance quickly escalated into a potential diplomatic crisis.
On their return to Pyongyang, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when guides requested to inspect their electronic devices. Fearing the worst, Henrik cleverly evaded this demand, but at the airport, the authorities demanded complete access. When officials discovered the video, chaos ensued. They accused his friend of “polluting” the country. Drawing parallels to other incidents involving foreigners facing severe penalties, Henrik noted that they could have easily faced the same fate as Otto Warmbier, an American jailed for an alleged crime and subsequently dying shortly after returning to the U.S.
Ultimately, their salvation lay in an apology letter addressed to North Korea’s leadership, a move that diffused the situation. Although not entirely safe, the pair managed to escape without serving time, a fact they attributed to a mix of strategy and sheer luck. Henrik reflects on his time in North Korea, calling it “the most interesting country in the world,” due to its unparalleled restrictions on personal freedoms and the enigmatic nature surrounding it.
While wild adventures make for thrilling stories, Henrik’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the unforeseen dangers that accompany international travel, especially in politically sensitive regions like North Korea.
Short Summary
Henrik Jeppesen’s visit to North Korea illustrates the dangers of travel in countries with oppressive regulations. His close call while attempting to honor a friend’s memory underscores the importance of understanding local laws and the potential consequences of seemingly harmless actions. With careful planning, travelers can cautiously navigate the complexities of visiting such restrictive environments.
