🐾 Traveling to Korea North with Pets
Pet-Friendly Korea North
Travel to Korea North (DPRK) is highly regulated and organized through state-approved tours, making pet travel extremely challenging and generally not recommended. Pets are rarely accommodated in tourist areas, and bringing animals requires special permissions from authorities. Focus on guided group tours where pet policies are coordinated in advance.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Visa & Tour Requirements
All travel to Korea North requires a visa obtained through approved tour operators like Koryo Tours. Pets need prior approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Include pet details in tour applications; health certificates and vaccinations must be translated into Korean.
Rabies Vaccination
Rabies vaccination is mandatory and must be administered at least 30 days before entry.
Vaccination records must be endorsed by official veterinarians and accompany all pet documentation.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Chip details must be registered with tour operators; bring verification documents for border checks.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from all countries face strict quarantine (up to 40 days) upon arrival in Pyongyang.
Additional blood tests for diseases like leishmaniasis may be required; consult DPRK embassy via tour agency.
Restricted Breeds
Certain breeds (e.g., those considered aggressive) are prohibited; all dogs must be muzzled and leashed.
Special permits needed for any pet; exotic animals are strictly banned without high-level approval.
Other Pets
Birds and small mammals require CITES permits if applicable; quarantine applies to all non-dog pets.
Consult tour operators for feasibility; most tours do not accommodate non-standard pets.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Korea North on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- State-Run Hotels (Pyongyang): Hotels like the Koryo Hotel or Yanggakdo International allow pets with prior arrangement for 50-100 KPW/night extra fee, providing basic amenities. Tours coordinate pet stays.
- Guest Houses & Ryokans (Kaesong): Traditional accommodations may accept small pets at no extra charge, with access to gardens. Ideal for cultural tours with dogs.
- Tour-Organized Lodging: All stays are pre-arranged through tours; pet inclusion must be specified during booking for approval.
- Rural Homestays (Mount Kumgang): Limited options for families; pets allowed in some farm-like stays with local animals, arranged via tours.
- Campsites (DMZ Area): Guided eco-tours offer pet-friendly camping with designated areas; basic facilities for short stays.
- Luxury Options: High-end hotels like the Pothonggang offer pet services including feeding and walking, but only for approved tour groups.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Mountain Trails
Mount Paektu and Kumgang areas have guided pet-friendly hikes under supervision.
Leash required; check tour rules for wildlife protection in national parks.
Lakes & Rivers
Supung Lake and Taedong River offer designated areas for pets during tours.
Pet swimming allowed in supervised sections; follow guide instructions.
Cities & Parks
Pyongyang's Moranbong Park welcomes leashed pets; outdoor areas in Kaesong are accessible.
Guided city walks permit well-behaved pets; indoor sites restrict animals.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Limited café culture; some hotel lounges allow pets outdoors in Pyongyang.
Water provided; always ask guides before entering with pets.
Guided Walking Tours
Tours in Pyongyang and DMZ welcome leashed pets at no extra charge.
Historic sites are pet-friendly under supervision; avoid sensitive areas.
Cable Cars & Lifts
Some mountain lifts allow small pets in carriers; fees around 10-20 KPW.
Advance booking required through tours; restrictions during peak seasons.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (State Railways): Small pets travel in carriers free; larger dogs require tickets (50% fare) and muzzles. Allowed in non-first class under supervision.
- Buses (Tour Transport): Tour buses allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs 20 KPW with leash/muzzle. Avoid crowded routes.
- Taxis: Limited; state taxis accept pets with guide approval. Private transport not available.
- Rental Cars: Not permitted for tourists; all transport via tours. Pets accommodated in group vehicles with fees (50-100 KPW).
- Flights to Korea North: Air Koryo allows cabin pets under 5kg for 50-100 USD. Book via tours and review carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Air China and Korean Air accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 50-100 USD. Larger pets in hold with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Veterinary clinics in Pyongyang provide basic care; 24-hour service limited.
Tour insurance recommended; consultations cost 50-200 KPW. Coordinate via guides.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Limited pet stores in Pyongyang stock basic food and medicine.
Bring all supplies; pharmacies carry essentials but may lack specialized items.
Grooming & Day Care
Hotel services offer basic grooming for 20-50 KPW per session.
Day care arranged through tours; book ahead for availability.
Pet-Sitting Services
Guides or hotel staff provide sitting during excursions for 20-50 KPW/day.
Tours recommend trusted locals; no independent services available.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed at all times in public areas and tour sites. Off-leash only in designated private spaces.
- Muzzle Requirements: All dogs over 10kg must wear muzzles in urban areas and transport. Carry at all times.
- Waste Disposal: Strict cleanup rules; fines up to 500 KPW. Bins provided on tours; always carry bags.
- Water Rules: Pets restricted from public water sources; use bottled water for drinking.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets outside only; no indoor access. Remain quiet and under control.
- Protected Areas: Pets banned from monuments and military sites; leash near cultural heritage zones.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Korea North
Korea North for Families
Korea North offers unique family experiences through guided tours, focusing on cultural immersion, monuments, and natural sites. Children must adhere to group schedules, but attractions like the Mass Games and Pyongyang's parks engage kids. All activities are supervised for safety.
Top Family Attractions
Kaeson Youth Park (Pyongyang)
Amusement park with rides, Ferris wheel, and games for families.
Entry free; rides 5-10 KPW. Open evenings with light shows.
Central Zoo (Pyongyang)
Large zoo with native and exotic animals, plus interactive exhibits.
Tickets 10-20 KPW adults, 5 KPW kids; family tours available.
Kaesong Historic Sites
Ancient city with palaces, tombs, and cultural shows kids enjoy.
Guided entry 20 KPW/family; includes storytelling sessions.
Three Revolutions Exhibition (Pyongyang)
Interactive history museum with models and demonstrations.
Tickets 5-10 KPW; engaging for school-age children.
Pyongyang Metro Tour
Deep underground stations with ornate designs and train rides.
Family tickets 10 KPW; short rides suitable for kids.
Mount Kumgang Adventures
Hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views for family outings.
Tour fees 50 KPW/person; easy paths for children 5+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Korea North on Viator. From DMZ visits to cultural shows, find guided experiences with flexible options.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Pyongyang): Hotels like Chongryu offer family rooms for 100-200 KPW/night. Include cribs and kids' meals via tours.
- Tour Resorts (Mount Kumgang): All-inclusive with family activities and supervision. Properties cater to groups with programs.
- Traditional Stays (Kaesong): Homestays with family interactions and cultural lessons. Prices 50-100 KPW/night.
- Group Lodging: Tours provide self-contained units with space for families and meal flexibility.
- Budget Options: Youth hostels in Pyongyang for 50-80 KPW/night with family dorms and basic facilities.
- Cultural Hotels: Stay near historic sites like in Kaesong for immersive family experiences.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Pyongyang with Kids
Metro rides, zoo visits, parks, and Mass Games performances.
Guided storytelling and ice cream treats make it engaging.
Kaesong with Kids
Historic walks, traditional dances, and market explorations.
Child-focused cultural demos and short train rides.
Mount Kumgang with Kids
Nature hikes, waterfall picnics, and scenic cable cars.
Easy trails and wildlife spotting for young adventurers.
DMZ Area
Guided tours of the border, observation points, and peace villages.
Educational for older kids with supervised activities.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 5 free; 6-12 half fare with adults. Family compartments on tour trains with space.
- Tour Buses: Group transport with child seats; family passes 20-30 KPW/day. Stroller-friendly vehicles.
- Car Rentals: Not available; tours provide vehicles with child seats (10 KPW/day).
- Stroller-Friendly: Main sites have paths; guides assist with accessibility in Pyongyang.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Tour meals include simple options like rice and noodles for 5-10 KPW.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Hotel dining with supervised kids' areas and local cuisine.
- Self-Catering: Limited; tours provide packed lunches with baby food options.
- Snacks & Treats: Ice cream and fruits available; keeps kids happy on tours.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in hotels and major sites with basic facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock essentials; guides help with purchases.
- Babysitting Services: Hotel staff or guides for 10-20 KPW/hour during free time.
- Medical Care: Clinics in Pyongyang; tour insurance covers emergencies.
♿ Accessibility in Korea North
Accessible Travel
Korea North provides basic accessibility through tours, with ramps at key sites and assisted transport. Guides ensure inclusive experiences, though historic areas may have limitations.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Wheelchair spaces on tour trains; assistance provided by staff.
- Tour Buses: Low-floor vehicles with ramps; audio guides for visually impaired.
- Taxis: Adapted vehicles available via tours; wheelchairs accommodated.
- Airports: Pyongyang Sunan Airport offers assistance and accessible facilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Monuments: Pyongyang sites have ramps and elevators; tactile guides available.
- Historic Sites: Kaesong paths adapted; assistance for uneven terrain.
- Nature & Parks: Selected trails wheelchair-friendly; Moranbong Park fully accessible.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers and wide doors.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) for mild weather and cherry blossoms; autumn (Sept-Oct) for festivals.
Summers hot/humid, winters cold; avoid extremes for family comfort.
Budget Tips
Tour packages include most costs; family discounts on group rates.
USD/EUR used; budget extra for souvenirs and pet fees.
Language
Korean official; English limited to guides. Basic phrases helpful.
Guides translate; families appreciated for cultural exchange.
Packing Essentials
Modest clothing, layers for variable weather, comfortable shoes.
Pet owners: food, leash, muzzle, documents; all in checked luggage.
Useful Apps
Tour apps for schedules; offline maps. Limited internet access.
Translation apps for basic communication.
Health & Safety
Very safe under supervision; bottled water advised. Clinics available.
Emergency: contact tour guide; dial 119 for medical.