N Korea cancels Pyongyang Marathon for 'some reasons'

North Korea has cancelled the 2026 Pyongyang International Marathon, which was scheduled to take place in April. The cancellation was announced by Koryo Tours, a Beijing-based tour agency that specializes in trips to North Korea. The notice of cancellation was communicated to Koryo Tours by the DPR Korea Athletics Association, although no specific reasons for the cancellation were provided. The abrupt decision to cancel the marathon comes less than a month before the event was set to occur, raising questions about North Korea's approach to reopening to foreign visitors. The marathon is an annual event that typically attracts international participants and spectators, making its cancellation significant in the context of North Korea's tourism and international engagement. Koryo Tours has been involved in organizing travel to North Korea for various events, including the marathon, and the cancellation may impact the plans of those who were intending to participate or attend. The lack of clarity surrounding the reasons for the cancellation adds to the uncertainty regarding North Korea's current policies and its willingness to host foreign visitors amid ongoing global health concerns and geopolitical tensions.