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N. Korea to Reopen Border With South

Tourism and reunions with relatives in SK now possible

By Mat Probasco,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 17, 2009 1:44 AM CDT

(Newser) – North Korea pledged today to reopen its borders with the south for tourism and family visits after reclusive leader Kim Jong-il met with the head of the South Korean Hyundai Group in Pyongyang, reports Reuters. Hyundai's Hyon Jong Un met the ailing Kim to secure the release of a detained worker—similar to Bill Clinton's recent visit to free two jailed American journalists.

Families separated by the 1950-1953 Korean War may be rejoicing, but the last Cold War hot spot has some obvious hurdles to mount before it will attract many other tourists. Immediately following the border opening announcement, Pyongyang warned of a "merciless and prompt annihilating strike" if its sovereignty is threatened. Last time tourists visited scenic Mt. Kumgang, one was shot dead after wandering into a military area.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Il poses with Hyun Jung-eun, left, the head of South Korea's Hyundai Group yesterday in North Korea.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il poses with Hyun Jung-eun, left, the head of South Korea's Hyundai Group yesterday in North Korea.   (AP Photo/Korean Central News Agency via Korea News Service)
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il inspects Kim Jong Suk Naval University in Pyongyang last week.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il inspects Kim Jong Suk Naval University in Pyongyang last week.   (AP Photo/Korean Central News Agency via Korea News Service)
Former President Bill Clinton met with North Korean Leader Kim Jong Il in Pyonggyang early this month.
Former President Bill Clinton met with North Korean Leader Kim Jong Il in Pyonggyang early this month.   (AP Photo/Korean Central News Agency via Korea News Service)
Kim Jong Il inspects the newly built Pothonggang Shop in Pyongyang.
Kim Jong Il inspects the newly built Pothonggang Shop in Pyongyang.   (AP Photo/Korean Central News Agency via Korea News Service)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 5 comments
cognitivefilter
Aug 18, 2009 5:54 AM CDT
i'm skeptical....
Kookey90
Aug 17, 2009 10:10 AM CDT
This just means North Korea needs the money.
jagerhans
Aug 17, 2009 9:45 AM CDT
funny that they plan to open the doors just the day next to threatening nuclear strikes because of US-S.Korea joint drills, i wonder what's really in their minds.

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