North Korea, which aims to expand its tourism industry to earn foreign currency, is attracting attention by promoting golf tourism.
The Korea-Associated Newspaper, which represents North Korea's stance, reported on the 26th that "as tourism develops in our country, various types of tourism are emerging," noting that golf tourism in Pyongyang is gaining popularity both domestically and internationally.
The Korea-Associated Newspaper stated, "Korea has a favorable natural geographical condition for golf tourism due to its beautiful scenery and mild climate," and reported that the Pyongyang Golf Course and Seosan Golf Practice Range are being established.
The Pyongyang Golf Course is located about 30 kilometers from downtown Pyongyang in the Taesung Lake area of the Gangseo District, and it is known to have a total of 18 holes that can accommodate more than 200 participants.
The total length is 6,777 yards (yd), and the Korea-Associated Newspaper promoted that it offers experiences of "hitting the ball in high difficulty obstacle areas" and "nail-biting moments at the finishes."
The media further explained, "Since 2017, the Ryo Myong Golf Travel Agency has been organized and active," and added that fishing in Taesung Lake, visiting historical relics from the Goguryeo period at the Gangseo Cemetery, and bathing using Gangseo Spring Water are also possible.
It also promoted that various types of tourism activities, such as visits to Korean scenic spots and historical sites, major cities, viewing art performances, and tasting food, can be conducted according to tourist demands.
Since golf is a sport that only the elite can enjoy in North Korea, it seems mainly aimed at attracting foreign tourists.
Before the border was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the "Pyongyang International Amateur Golf Tournament" hosted by the British Lupin Travel Agency took place at the Pyongyang Golf Course in the fall of 2011-2016.
Recently, North Korea appears to be in a mood to expand its foreign tourism industry, which is almost the only means to earn foreign currency that can bypass sanctions and an opportunity for regime propaganda.