North Korea is not the first country that comes to mind when you think about medical tourism. The phrase conjures images of sleek hospitals in Thailand, cutting-edge procedures in South Korea, or wellness retreats in Germany. North Korea? Not so much.
And yet, beneath the surface of its highly controlled and closed society, North Korea is taking early steps toward positioning itself—albeit modestly—as a destination for specialized forms of medical and wellness tourism. While the infrastructure is far from what most international travelers might expect, there are key developments that deserve a closer look. Certain hotels, resorts, and medical facilities—mostly in Pyongyang and nearby regions—are quietly forming the basis of what could one day become a niche market in this isolated nation.
Let’s explore the most notable facilities and what they actually offer medical tourists, based on publicly available information.
1. Yangdok Hot Spring Resort – Yangdok
If there is one facility that truly encapsulates North Korea’s vision of integrated wellness, it is the Yangdok Hot Spring Resort.
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What makes it stand out?
Located in the scenic mountains of Yangdok County, this resort combines the natural healing benefits of hot springs with medical spa services and even recreational skiing. Opened in late 2019, the facility has been part of a government push to develop “people’s wellness” destinations.
Medical Tourism Features:
- Hot Springs and Mineral Baths: Natural spring waters are rich in minerals reputed to aid circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Medical Spa and Rehabilitation Services: Facilities offer massages, hydrotherapy, and various traditional Korean treatments.
- Ski Resort Integration: The adjacent ski slopes attract visitors during winter, blending sports with recovery.
Who is it for?
Primarily, it caters to domestic tourists and visitors from friendly nations. That said, if you are part of a tightly managed tour group with health-focused goals, Yangdok may be included in the itinerary. It’s particularly suitable for older travelers or those recovering from injury or surgery.
2. Onpho Holiday Camp – Onpho
A less flashy but historically significant destination, Onpho Holiday Camp has long been a retreat for rest and recuperation.
What to expect?
Onpho is known for its therapeutic hot springs and quiet forested surroundings. It’s more rustic than Yangdok, but it has a loyal following, especially among locals and long-term foreign guests from partner nations.
Medical Tourism Features:
- Traditional Korean Therapy: Including moxibustion, cupping therapy, and herbal baths.
- Hot Springs: The natural waters are utilized for their therapeutic properties.
- Medical Tourism Projects Underway: There have been attempts to integrate formal wellness services with existing facilities.
Actionable Insight:
For travelers with chronic conditions such as arthritis or skin disorders, Onpho provides a low-stimulation environment with physical therapy potential. Access is limited, but it remains an intriguing option.
3. Yanggakdo International Hotel – Pyongyang
This is North Korea’s largest hotel and the most frequently used by international visitors. Located on an island in the Taedong River, the Yanggakdo Hotel is less about luxury and more about strategic placement.
Medical Tourism Features:
- Proximity to Key Hospitals: Just minutes from several major medical facilities including Pyongyang Medical School Hospital and the Ryugyong General Ophthalmic Hospital.
- Accommodation for Medical Tour Groups: Often used as a base for foreign delegations or medical tourists attending specialist clinics.
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Practical Tip:
If you’re traveling to Pyongyang for medical reasons—particularly eye care or surgical consultation—this is likely where you’ll stay. The hotel is fully equipped with restaurants, a spa, a pool, and even a bowling alley. It’s not five-star by global standards, but it’s stable and secure.
4. Koryo Hotel – Pyongyang
The Koryo Hotel was once considered the crown jewel of North Korea’s hospitality scene. Located in the heart of Pyongyang, it’s close to administrative buildings and major hospitals.
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Why is this relevant?
- Premium Accommodations: It’s often used to host visiting dignitaries, medical professionals, or patients requiring VIP-level arrangements.
- Walkable Access to State Hospitals: Including Komalsan Rehabilitation Hospital and Namsan Treatment Center.
Who should consider it?
If your visit involves a more involved medical program with daily appointments, this hotel’s central location and services make it ideal. It also has more stable internet access and business facilities than other hotels in the city.
5. Hyangsan Hotel – Hyangsan
Nestled near Mount Myohyang, Hyangsan Hotel offers something different—a fusion of nature, peace, and therapeutic care.
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Medical Tourism Elements:
- Spa Facilities: Including saunas, hot tubs, and massage therapy.
- Wellness Tourism: Positioned as a relaxation retreat with medical-lite amenities.
Ideal For:
Those looking for wellness rather than intervention. If your aim is to disconnect, rejuvenate, and breathe in mountain air while receiving basic therapeutic services, Hyangsan is one of your few options in the DPRK.
6. Masik Pass Ski Resort – Near Wonsan
This modern ski facility has recently been the subject of new development plans aimed at wellness tourism.
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What’s in development?
- Spa and Recovery Centers: Intended to cater to skiers and medical tourists alike.
- Integrative Wellness Facilities: Future plans include rehabilitation suites and traditional Korean therapy centers.
Actionable Insight:
Currently, the wellness aspects are more aspirational than fully functional. However, if North Korea opens further, Masik Pass could evolve into a premium location for medical tourists combining sports and therapy.
7. Pyongyang Medical School Hospital – Pyongyang
This facility is not a hotel, but it plays a central role in North Korea’s medical tourism ecosystem.
Why it matters:
- Specialist Training Hub: Many of North Korea’s leading surgeons and specialists train and practice here.
- Foreign Medical Delegations: It has hosted international partnerships, mostly from Russia and China.
What it offers medical tourists:
Diagnostic services, surgeries, and specialist consultations. If you’re traveling for specific treatment (especially in ophthalmology or surgery), chances are you’ll come here.
8. Namsan Treatment Center – Pyongyang
This hospital is known for specialist care, particularly in internal medicine and diagnostics.
Key Strengths:
- Centrally Located: Near major hotels and embassies.
- Focus on Diagnostics and Chronic Care: Popular with returning foreign patients who have pre-existing relationships with the medical staff.
Travel Tip:
If you’re visiting for follow-up care or ongoing medical management, the proximity of this center to the Koryo and Yanggakdo hotels is beneficial.
9. Komalsan Rehabilitation Hospital – Pyongyang
One of the few dedicated rehab centers in the country.
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Why it’s relevant to medical tourists:
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Offers physical therapy and traditional rehab techniques.
- Near Tourist Accommodations: Easy transport from central Pyongyang hotels.
This facility is particularly useful for those who may be undergoing orthopedic surgery or mobility treatments.
10. Ryugyong General Ophthalmic Hospital – Pyongyang
North Korea is surprisingly advanced in one specific area: eye care.
What it specializes in:
- Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery: North Korea has received foreign training and equipment to bolster its ophthalmology services.
- Included in Tourist Packages: Some groups specifically travel to North Korea for eye treatment, including low-cost surgeries.
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Actionable Insight:
If you’re considering North Korea for any medical tourism reason, this is perhaps the most logical entry point. The hospital is well-established, and procedures are often bundled with stays at nearby hotels.
Final Thoughts: Should You Consider Medical Tourism in North Korea?
Let’s be clear—North Korea is not a typical destination for medical tourism. The country lacks international accreditation for its hospitals, there are significant barriers to access, and information is limited.
However, for a narrow subset of patients—those from countries with friendly diplomatic relations, or those with specific wellness-focused goals—it may offer a surprisingly viable experience. Especially in fields like rehabilitation, eye care, and wellness tourism tied to hot springs.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Pros:
- Low cost for procedures like cataract surgery or physical therapy.
- Access to traditional Korean treatments in authentic settings.
- Unique opportunity for cultural and wellness tourism in one.
Cons:
- Strict travel limitations and monitoring.
- Limited emergency response infrastructure.
- Lack of global accreditation and transparency.
Professional Advice:
Before even considering a trip, consult with a travel company that has experience organizing medical tourism to North Korea. They’ll handle the visas, lodging, coordination with medical institutions, and guide you through a safe and efficient process.
In short, North Korea isn’t the next Thailand or Turkey for medical tourism—but it is quietly carving a place for itself in the wellness niche, blending state-backed ambition with ancient healing traditions. For the right person, in the right circumstances, it might just be the most unusual and intriguing medical journey available today.
