The People’s Republic of China Embassy in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Embassy of China, Pyongyang) has announced that it is looking forward to welcoming more Chinese tourists to visit Mount Chongbang, one of North Korea’s tourist destinations. This is a sign of the resumption of group tourism from China, which was suspended due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
The Embassy of China, Pyongyang, posted a website on Monday titled “Mount Chongbang Blooms with Magnolia Blossoms.” The website states that Mount Chongbang, which is 500 meters (about 1,640 feet) above sea level, is named because the four corners of the mountain top are connected in a square. It also notes that Chongbang Fortress appears magnificently when you climb the trail past the mountain entrance.
The embassy also explained that Chongbang Fortress, founded during the Goryeo Dynasty, was used as a strategic point to fight against invaders during the Japanese Invasion of Korea. It also introduced the Sungbulsa Temple on the mountainside and the anecdote that President Kim Il Sung discovered a magnolia while studying at Mount Chongbang.
Pak Hae Un, director of North Hwanghae Province’s Tourism Bureau, chimed in on Mount Chongbang’s appeal. He explained that it’s not just about the breathtaking views and historical sites. He further noted that the location is prime between Pyongyang and Sariwon, and a must-pass spot on the way from Pyongyang to Kaesong.
Pak reminisced about pre-pandemic times, noting that before COVID hit, Mount Chongbang was a hotspot for local and international tourists, especially those from China. He shared exciting plans for the future, which include upgrading the tourist routes and facilities around Mount Chongbang full steam ahead. He expressed his anticipation of welcoming more Chinese visitors to experience its beauty.
Relations between North Korea and China were somewhat frosty in 2023 and 2024, when Pyongyang was closely aligned with Russia, but they have recently shown signs of improvement with the resumption of communication between high-level representatives. In this atmosphere, the Embassy of China, Pyongyang, promotes tourist destinations in North Korea.
North Korea is rebuilding itself as a tourist destination. A modern hotel will open on Mount Chongbang in 2021, 10 years after construction began. In June, North Korea will open the Kalma Coastal Tourist Area, a beachfront resort complex in Wonsan, Gangwon Province.
