North Korea's national airline, Air Koryo, was poised to mark a significant milestone by conducting its first commercial flight in over three years. However, the highly anticipated event turned into disappointment as the flight was unexpectedly canceled at the last minute, leaving journalists and observers puzzled.
The isolated nation has remained largely cut off from the outside world since early 2020 when it sealed its borders in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. On Monday, journalists gathered at Beijing's Capital Airport, eagerly awaiting Air Koryo flight JS151 from Pyongyang, scheduled to land at 09:50 a.m. As the hours passed and the aircraft failed to arrive, a signboard in the terminal announced the flight's cancellation, prompting audible disappointment from the media contingent.
Beijing airport customer service reported that Air Koryo had not provided a reason for the abrupt cancellation. Efforts to contact Air Koryo's China offices were unsuccessful, and a visit to the airline's Beijing outpost revealed locked doors. Despite the absence of staff, the office appeared maintained, with an occasional presence reported by a worker on the same floor.
The cancellation comes after years of North Korea's self-imposed isolation, attributed to COVID-19 concerns. Recent events, however, suggest a potential shift in the country's approach to border controls. Foreign dignitaries from China and Russia attended a military parade in Pyongyang last month, marking a rare instance of international visitors. Additionally, North Korea permitted a delegation of athletes to participate in a taekwondo competition in Kazakhstan.
While the canceled flight has raised questions about North Korea's intentions, experts remain cautious about interpreting these events as a complete opening of the country's borders. The Seoul Unification Ministry, responsible for North Korean relations, expressed uncertainty regarding the canceled flight's reasons and the broader implications of recent border-related developments.
Despite the setback, speculation persists that Air Koryo is planning further flights. Specialist website NK News reported that the airline is set to operate two flights from Russia's Vladivostok to Pyongyang in the coming week. As North Korea's approach to its borders evolves, the world watches for signs of greater flexibility or a controlled approach to international engagement.