North Korea: Foreign Tourists Allowed to Keep Cell Phones

By Larry Habegger and Laurie Weed | Permalink |

No Comments | January 23rd, 2013 | Trackback

Authorities have always been quick to confiscate cell phones, smart phones, GPS units and tablets from foreign tourists at Pyongyang airport or at the border, and return them to their owners only upon departure. However, a foreign tour group recently reported being allowed to keep their cell phones, even using them within the country for domestic calls. The phones will only operate with a local SIM card, which can be purchased after arrival, and international calls and web surfing are still blocked. However, some visitors may view this small change as a hopeful sign of things to come. Most North Koreans have never had opportunity to use the internet freely or make an international call.