Pyongyang marathon returns after six years, attracting global athletes

North Korea held its first Pyongyang International Marathon in six years, with foreign runners from China and Ethiopia. The event marked the country's gradual reopening post-pandemic, celebrating Kim Il Sung's birthday. The marathon symbolized North Korea's cautious return to normalcy.

North Korea hosted its first Pyongyang International Marathon in six years on Sunday, marking a significant moment as the country gradually reopens after the pandemic. Foreign runners from countries including China and Ethiopia participated in the event, which took place as part of the celebrations for the April 15 birthday of Kim Il Sung, the nation's founder.

Around 200 international participants arrived in Pyongyang for the race, which was organised with assistance from Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based company. Despite the country's isolation, which saw its borders closed in 2020 due to COVID-19, North Korea has begun to lift some restrictions, welcoming tourists from Russia and now allowing limited international participation in events.

The marathon course ran through the heart of Pyongyang, passing notable landmarks before heading into the countryside and returning to the city for a dramatic finish at a stadium packed with 50,000 spectators. State television footage showed enthusiastic crowds, some of whom wore masks, cheering on the runners. A North Korean athlete crossed the finish line first, as reported by state media.

This marathon is seen as a symbolic return to normalcy for the isolated nation, which remains cautious in its approach to reopening.

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