North Korea: Inter-Korea summit in Pyongyang September 18-20

Event

South Korean officials announced on Wednesday, September 5, that an inter-Korea summit will be held in Pyongyang from Tuesday, September 18, through Thursday, September 20. North Korean leader Kim Jung-un will meet with South Korean President Moon Jae-in to continue discussions on implementing the Panmunjeom Declaration and practical measures for denuclearization. As of Friday, September 7, exact details regarding the summit have not yet been released. Heightened security measures such as road closures, increased security personnel deployments, and identity checks are expected during the above period.

Context

This is the third round of talks between Moon and Kim in recent months. Relations between the two Koreas seem to be entering a period of detente. A summit took place between the two countries on April 27 in the "truce" village of Panmunjom, located on the shared border.

Advice

Individuals present in Pyongyang during the June 12 summit are advised to anticipate heightened security measures throughout the city and increased traffic congestion (particularly at major travel hubs) and allow for additional travel time. Adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

Despite the current détente prevailing on the Korea peninsula, most Western governments still advise their citizens against nonessential travel to North Korea. For those visiting the country, follow the advice of a tour company. As a reminder, offenses usually considered trivial in other countries carry very severe penalties in North Korea, especially actions deemed disrespectful towards the regime or its leader.