Tonghung Hill is a notable landmark located in Hamhung, the second-largest city in North Korea. It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes, making it an attractive spot for those who visit the area. However, tourism in North Korea has been strictly controlled by the government since the establishment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in 1948.
Initially, tourism to places like Tonghung Hill was virtually nonexistent, limited to a few government-invited guests or delegates. It wasn't until the early 1990s that North Korea began to cautiously open up to international tourism. However, travel has always been highly regulated, with visitors typically being part of guided tours and having little autonomy to explore independently.
Despite these restrictions, there has been a mild increase in tourism interest in places like Tonghung Hill, as part of the broader interest in the Hamhung area. The region's rich history, going back to the Koryo Dynasty, and notable locations, like the Hungnam Fertilizer Complex, make it an educational destination for those granted permission to enter the country.
In recent years, there has been a slow but growing trend in experiential and educational tourism in North Korea. This includes visits to historical sites and natural landmarks such as the Tonghung Hill, albeit still within the confines of a guided tour. Tourists are attracted to these sites due to the allure of visiting a largely isolated and enigmatic country.
However, tourism trends are heavily influenced by the political climate, both within North Korea and in its relations with the outside world. Furthermore, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea has closed its borders to international tourists, effectively pausing any growth in tourism to destinations like Tonghung Hill. Information on when North Korea might reopen its borders to tourists is not readily available.
For those looking to explore Tonghung Hill and other North Korean tourist locations in the future, it is essential to keep abreast of political developments and travel advisories from reliable sources. Until the borders reopen, much of the country's tourism potential, including the natural beauty of Tonghung Hill, remains untapped by international travelers.
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