Hundreds of local and foreign runners took to the streets of Pyongyang on Sunday as North Korea hosted its premier international marathon race for the first time in six years, showcasing the capital’s readiness to welcome visitors from across the world when authorities decide to resume tourism.

After five consecutive cancellations, the 31st Pyongyang International Marathon saw over 500 “elite” athletes and amateur runners participating in the marathon, half marathon, 10 km and 5 km races, the North Korea-focused travel agency Koryo Tours said in a press release on Sunday.

“Among them were around 200 international amateur runners, making