North Korea hosts first international marathon in six years

North Korea hosted its first Pyongyang International Marathon in six years, marking a significant event as the country slowly reopens after closing its borders due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Athletes from various countries, including China and Romania, participated alongside local runners, with North Korean Pak Kim Dong winning the men's race and Jon Su Gyong winning the women's. Approximately 200 foreign participants attended, a notable increase from previous years, but still far from the 950 who competed in 2019. The event coincides with celebrations for Kim Il Sung's birthday, reflecting a cautious approach to international engagement. Observers see this marathon as a sign of North Korea's tentative opening to foreign tourism, although regular tourism remains largely restricted. The course ran through central Pyongyang, concluding at the Kim Il Sung Stadium, where a large crowd welcomed the runners.