US Extends Travel Ban to North Korea Amid Rising Tensions

The decision by the US Department of State comes at a time of heightened tensions with North Korea, due to the uncertain situation of US soldier Travis King, who is accused of entering North Korea “unauthorized and illegally,” along with concerns over North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

The directive, signed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, extends the travel ban for American citizens intending to visit North Korea without special permission until August 31, 2024.

The decision was made due to the perceived risks that American citizens could face, such as arrest and prolonged detention, while in North Korea. The directive states that “Travel to North Korea with a US passport will not be possible. Individuals wishing to travel to the country will need to obtain special permission.”

The ban on using a US passport for travel to North Korea was initiated by then-Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in 2017, following the death of American student Otto Warmbier, who was severely injured while under North Korean custody.