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North Korea Surf Guide

Updated: Mar 3

Surfing in North Korea is not the first activity that comes to mind when you think of the isolated country. Yet, the waves of the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan, that wash the country’s eastern coast are perfect for the sport.


Though North Korea is not a popular surfing destination, it does not mean it is impossible to surf there.

With a desire for adventure and willingness to navigate the country’s restrictions, it is possible to ride waves in this fascinating and little-known part of the world.



History of Surfing in North Korea


Surfing is a relatively new sport in North Korea, and it is mostly unknown to the local population.


However, a few intrepid foreigners have been able to find waves on the country’s east coast.


Some of these foreigners were professional surfers, who were invited to North Korea as part of a government-sponsored initiative to promote the country as a tourist destination.


Others were tourists who were simply curious about the waves they had heard about.

One of the few surfers who has surfed in North Korea is French surfer, Pierre Lelievre.


In 2010, Lelievre was invited to North Korea as part of the “Surfing the DMZ” project, which aimed to bring surfers to the country to ride the waves off the east coast.

The project was sponsored by the North Korean government, and it aimed to promote the country as a tourist destination. Lelievre’s experience of surfing in North Korea was unique, to say the least.

Lelievre described the waves in North Korea as “fun, but not perfect.” He said that the waves were relatively small, but that they were perfect for beginners. Lelievre and the other surfers who were part of the “Surfing the DMZ” project were taken to the small town of Majon, which is located on the east coast of North Korea. Majon is a popular tourist destination, and it is known for its beaches.

The surfers were allowed to surf in a specific area that had been designated for them by the North Korean government.


The area was surrounded by military personnel, who were there to ensure that the surfers did not stray too far from the designated area.


The surfers were also not allowed to take any photographs of the area, and they were not allowed to interact with the local population.

Despite the restrictions, Lelievre said that he had a great time surfing in North Korea.


He said that he was impressed by the country’s natural beauty, and he was surprised by the kindness of the North Korean people.


He said that he would definitely recommend surfing in North Korea to other surfers who were looking for a unique and challenging experience.

North Korea Surfing Challenges


While surfing in North Korea is possible, it is not an easy task.


The country is heavily regulated, and foreigners are not allowed to travel freely within the country. Surfing is also not a popular activity in North Korea, and there are few resources available for surfers who want to explore the country’s waves.

One of the biggest challenges that surfers face when trying to surf in North Korea is getting permission from the government.


The North Korean government is notoriously strict when it comes to allowing foreigners into the country, and it is even more strict when it comes to allowing foreigners to engage in activities that are not part of the country’s culture.

Surfing is not a popular activity in North Korea, and it is unlikely that the government will allow surfers to freely explore the country’s waves.

Another challenge that surfers face when trying to surf in North Korea is finding suitable equipment.


There are few surf shops in North Korea, and it is unlikely that surfers will be able to find high-quality equipment.


Surfboards, wetsuits, and other equipment will need to be brought into the country


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