A little bit more on tourism in North Korea... I visited the Official Korean (S) site for tourism, and it was really interesting to see what kind of spin they put on tourism... Mostly they emphasized the beauty of the historic districts and the scenic natural beauties of the region. Lots of pictures of vistas and moutains and classic Korean architecture. This really caters to those interested in the great and ancient history of the Korean people, which is really evident in the tourism's summary of their history (found on the bottom of the page).
However, the majority of the sites that catered to Americans was focused on North Korea as a fascinating adventure back in time (thats how it seemed to me atleast). More of a focus on experiencing the different lifestyle, compared to the South's and gawking at Kim-centric monuments etc. Especially with the Mass Games being open to foriegn spectators since 2006, there is even more interest in North Korea.
There are also lots of "what not to do" things are mentioned so that silly Americans don't get themselves in trouble... Theres this older article I found, but its still interesting.
Here is the Lonely Planet guide's site which tends to be more neutral and informational. But theres ones like this... a bit of a different slant.
Many question whether tourism in a dictatorial regime is morally right... Should we tour this country that is an "enemy to the free world" and support them with our money? Or should we stay out completely? I think that although the North Korean government suppresses its people, maybe tourism can atleast help in the humanitarian way of injecting money into their system- and hopefully raise citizen's quality of life by a little.
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I completely agree with your point alison. I honestly believe that if you open up to tourism, no matter how much of a facade it may be, the increasing number of tourists can only help. More tourists mean more money for the government, which hopefully will be allocated to the people. And if more people get to see North Korea and perhaps get a small glimpse of how closed and poor it is, perhaps more people will help.
haha as i was looking at tourism in NK sites, i saw this shrot paragraph that was funny...
it was basically about NK cultural customs... and it had a 2 or 3 sentences ending with: "NEVER SAY ANYTHING BAD ABOUT NK WHILE YOU ARE THERE" haha...ok... i just though it was funny. supposedly people have been detained for short periods of time for badmouthing...
I don't think that restricting the tourism to North Korea, would be wrong not only to towards North Korea but to any person who wishes to visit. We are fortunate to have the ability to travel and see other cultures, and taking that right away from citizens of any country, for reasons other than security is wrong.
Second, I believe that not only would tourism help North Korea's economy, but also maybe allow some, as minor as may be influence from the outside world. Restricitng tourism would only hurt any little chance that still remains to bring about any chnages in that region.
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