March 28, 2024

About the author

Gareth Johnson

Gareth Johnson is the CEO of Young Pioneer Tours, a travel company that specializes in tourism to countries including North Korea, Cuba and Iran.

More articles by 'Gareth Johnson'

Why North Korea tourism and cultural exchanges are a force for good

Why North Korea tourism and cultural exchanges are a force for good

Far from supporting the regime, tourism promotes understanding between peoples that view themselves as enemies

Why North Korea tourism and cultural exchanges are a force for good
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson June 25, 2021
The Rason Special Economic Zone: Like nowhere else in North Korea

The Rason Special Economic Zone: Like nowhere else in North Korea

The DPRK’s flirtation with capitalism has led to hotels, casinos, beaches and trade shows in one small area in the North

The Rason Special Economic Zone: Like nowhere else in North Korea
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson June 18, 2021
What it’s like to be a foreign tour guide in North Korea

What it’s like to be a foreign tour guide in North Korea

Guides occupy a strange middle ground when it comes to North Korea watchers due to all the time spent in the country

What it’s like to be a foreign tour guide in North Korea
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson June 11, 2021
What North Korea is really like when visiting as a tourist

What North Korea is really like when visiting as a tourist

The reality of sightseeing is much different than portrayed, despite some restrictions

What North Korea is really like when visiting as a tourist
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson June 4, 2021
Why North Korea’s Wonsan Beach Resort could be a game changer for tourism

Why North Korea’s Wonsan Beach Resort could be a game changer for tourism

Tens of thousands could soon be enjoying a one-of-a-kind summer vacation in the DPRK

Why North Korea’s Wonsan Beach Resort could be a game changer for tourism
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson May 27, 2021
Better airports would help tourists visit rarely-seen areas of North Korea

Better airports would help tourists visit rarely-seen areas of North Korea

Large numbers of tourists may want to visit North Korea after international travel resumes

Better airports would help tourists visit rarely-seen areas of North Korea
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson May 12, 2021
Why North Korean tour operators are optimistic about growth

Why North Korean tour operators are optimistic about growth

Chinese numbers to DPRK are dropping significantly, but Western operators remain optimistic

Why North Korean tour operators are optimistic about growth
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson July 25, 2016
Without more flights, North Korea tourism industry will stagnate

Without more flights, North Korea tourism industry will stagnate

Possible Shanghai-to-Pyongyang flights a godsend in face of potential stagnation

Without more flights, North Korea tourism industry will stagnate
Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson December 2, 2015