Short Description
Explore the unique loophole that allows tourists in North Korea a brief taste of freedom amidst tight restrictions, through the lens of Drew Binsky’s documentary insights.
Read Time
4 minutes 30 seconds
Main Article
When North Korea reopened its borders in 2025, it generated significant intrigue worldwide. Despite its isolated stance and grip on information, the nation remains a topic of fascination, particularly for travelers drawn to its unique realities. American citizens are still barred from visiting, yet various loopholes allow foreign tourists a glimpse of the country without government oversight. Drew Binsky, a well-known YouTuber celebrated for exploring hard-to-reach places, sought to understand the changes in North Korea a decade after his first visit.
Binsky’s innovative approach involved sending a Latvian friend to experience the country under the stringent guidelines imposed on non-residents. Excitement filled the air as she arrived, only to find that most tourist protocols had remained unchanged. Guided tours restrict visitors to pre-approved itineraries and escorts, preventing spontaneous exploration. However, one fascinating loophole allows runners in the Pyongyang Marathon to step outside without supervision during early morning training sessions. This rare window into the otherwise regulated environment offers tourists limited freedom in a country characterized by its stringent control.
The significance of the Pyongyang Marathon extends beyond physical activity. This annual event, which resumed in 2025 after a hiatus due to the pandemic, draws both amateur and elite runners. The marathon serves as a unique attraction that grants participants special visas enabling them to jog through the streets of Pyongyang. This experience allows runners not only to witness the city’s landscape but also interact with its residents—something that is typically forbidden in North Korean tourism. The races envelop local landmarks, such as the Juche Tower and Kim Il Sung Square, allowing a glimpse into a nation often shrouded in mystery.
While broader tourism opportunities remain tepid, the marathon has become a beacon for those eager to explore. With high demand for slots and tickets, Koryo Tours reported all entries for the 2026 event were snatched up within hours. The marathon is more than just a race; it’s a rare glimpse into North Korea under tightly controlled conditions, where moments of authenticity can emerge—even as most avenues for genuine interaction with locals remain muted.
Short Summary
Drew Binsky’s recent insights into North Korea’s tourism reveal how the Pyongyang Marathon serves as a rare loophole, allowing participants limited freedom to explore the city. While tightly controlled, this event offers an unprecedented glimpse into a fascinating yet restricted environment.
