A group of adventurous Australians is gearing up for a remarkable experience by participating in the upcoming Pyongyang Marathon in North Korea. This marathon, set to take place for the first time in five years, presents a unique opportunity for around 200 foreigners, including a handful of Australians, to run through the streets of the secretive capital, Pyongyang.

Despite the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advising against travel to North Korea due to safety and security concerns, these intrepid Australians are undeterred. The marathon, scheduled for April, is proceeding amidst the backdrop of limited tourism access to North Korea following the closure of borders during the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the Australian participants, Brendan Skinner, sees this event as a convergence of two extraordinary experiences – running a marathon and visiting North Korea. While Skinner, an experienced ultra-marathon runner, acknowledges the challenges ahead, he is fueled by the anticipation of the unique setting and the energy of the crowd.

The DFAT’s “do not travel” advisory for North Korea underscores the complex legal and security landscape of the country, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness. With Australia lacking a consulate in North Korea, limited emergency consular services are provided by the Swedish Embassy in Pyongyang, highlighting the potential risks associated with travel to this isolated nation.

Simon Cockerell, the general manager of Koryo Tours, the exclusive operator facilitating foreigners’ participation in the Pyongyang Marathon, sheds light on the diverse mix of individuals joining the event. Describing North Korea as a captivating yet enigmatic destination, Cockerell emphasizes the marathon as a rare opportunity under exceptional circumstances, attracting runners from various backgrounds.

The allure of running through the streets of Pyongyang, greeted by cheering locals and culminating in a packed stadium, is a sentiment shared by Jasmine Barrett, a seasoned participant in the Pyongyang Marathon. Barrett, a PhD student specializing in North Korea’s disability sector, finds the marathon as a unique lens through which to explore the city, offering a different perspective from traditional tours.

For Stan, another participant venturing into the marathon with an open mind, the decision to participate was sparked by a social media post. Despite limited running experience, Stan’s enthusiasm for the half-marathon reflects the diverse motivations driving individuals to engage in this extraordinary event.

As these Australians prepare to embark on this unparalleled journey, their stories underscore the blend of curiosity, resilience, and passion that drive individuals to push their boundaries and embrace the unknown. The Pyongyang Marathon serves as a symbolic convergence of sport, adventure, and cultural exploration, offering a glimpse into a world seldom seen by outsiders.