MileHacker Logo
Sunchon Travel Checklist

Sunchon Travel Checklist

Sunchon South Pyongan, North Korea Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Start planning well in advance, as visa and tour arrangements take time.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Organize your tasks to cover all aspects of this unique travel experience.

1

-6 Months Before

Operator Contact

Contact an authorized tour operator.

Itinerary Finalization

Finalize your Sunchon itinerary.

Passport Validity

6 months validity beyond departure.

2

-2 Months Before

Visa Application

Apply for your visa through the tour operator.

International Flights

Arrange flights to Beijing or other entrances.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Bank Notification

Notify your bank (though cards not used in DPRK).

Document Copies

Make multiple copies (digital and printed) of all documents.

Pre-Trip Bookings

All flights, tour packages, and accommodation must be booked well in advance through your chosen tour operator. Independent bookings are not possible.

Guided Booking Process

  • All bookings handled via operator.
  • Flights and lodging pre-arranged.
  • Independent bookings are not possible.
  • Early arrangements are .

Pre-Departure Info

Familiarize yourself with DPRK history, its political system, and cultural norms. This context assists you in understanding what you will see and experience.

Home Preparation

  • Inform family or friends of your detailed itinerary.
  • Ensure emergency contacts at home are aware.
  • Arrange for mail, pet care, or other home services.
  • Consider digital copies of documents.

Essential Information

Convert sufficient hard currency (EUR, RMB, USD) into smaller denominations for incidentals and tips.

Currency Readiness

  • Hard currency needed.
  • EUR, RMB, USD accepted.
  • Smaller denominations.
  • For incidentals & tips.

Document Safeguarding

Mindset Preparation

  • Research DPRK history.
  • Understand political system.
  • Cultural norms awareness.
  • Watch documentaries.

Visa is Mandatory

Your visa application must be processed through an authorized tour operator. Independent applications are not possible.

Arrival Checklist

Your arrival in North Korea is a guided process.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Meet Your Guides:

    Assigned guides meet you at Pyongyang airport (FNJ) or the border crossing.

  • 2
    Initial Briefing:

    Listen carefully for initial briefings on rules and etiquette.

  • 3
    Questions & Instructions:

    They provide important instructions and answer initial questions.

Logistics Handled

  • Currency Exchange:

    Guides assist with hard currency exchange for incidentals.

  • Transportation:

    Pre-arranged transport to your designated hotel.

  • Designated Accommodation:

    Direct travel to your specific, pre-determined hotel.

Arrival Procedures

Guide Meeting

Meet your assigned guides promptly.

They are your constant companions.

Entry Point

Typically Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (FNJ).

Alternatively, a land border crossing for train arrivals.

Initial Briefing

Expect a briefing on rules and etiquette.

Listen for important instructions.

Guided Arrival

From the instant you arrive, your tour guides manage all aspects of your entry and initial orientation.

Departure Preparation

Departure needs careful attention to your guides' instructions.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase from designated shops.
  • Shipping options are very limited.
  • Plan to tote items with you.
  • Ask guides about any limitations on items.

Return Trip Logistics

  • VAT refund procedures are not applicable.
  • Follow guides' how to airport or station arrival times.
  • Ensure all personal belongings are packed.
  • Settle any outstanding bills (cash only) in your hotel.

Final Checkpoints

Ensure all personal belongings are packed. Settle any outstanding bills (we only take cash) at your hotel for personal expenses.

Packing & Settlement

  • All belongings packed.
  • Settle hotel bills.
  • Cash payments only.
  • Departure formalities.

Guide-Assisted Departure

Your guides will direct you through departure formalities, supporting a smooth exit from the country.

  • Follow guide instructions.
  • Arrive on time as instructed.
  • Guided through airport checks.
  • Assistance with any queries.

Seamless Departure

Rely on your guides for all departure procedures, from hotel check-out to airport formalities.

They ensure a structured and efficient exit.