The number of Australian tourists traveling to North Korea has substantially surged over the last three years, according to new data.
With the Winter Olympics underway and more than 200,000 visitors expected in PyeongChang, analysis by Allianz Travel indicates that since 2015 three times as many Aussies are taking out travel policies to visit North Korea.
Tourists who may be increasingly favouring a less-than-ordinary travel itinerary have also opted for trips South Korea, with insurance coverage plans climbing from 2,308 in 2015 to 7,226 in 2017.
The number of Australian tourists traveling to North Korea (pictured) has substantially surged over the last three years, according to data by Allianz Travel
As more travellers visit hotspots across Asia and Europe, numbers have surged particularly in less obvious options like Spain (pictured)
As more travellers visit hotspots across Asia and Europe, numbers have surged particularly in surprising locations.
Travelers taking on Japan has risen by 195 percent with 13,434 Allianz Travel polices issued in 2015 to 39,613 in 2017.
The climbing statistics are similar to that of Thailand where interest has climbed from 28,302 policies taken out in 2015 to 69,550 coverage plans sought in 2017.
For visitors heading to Spain travel cover increased by more than two and a half times, ahead of France which saw just twice as much interest.
One Australian tourist who ventured to North Korea in 2011 told Daily Mail Australia he understands the appeal of travelers wanting to explore the mysterious and closed off nation.
He said once guests arrive in the ‘Hermit Kingdom’ they are accompanied by guides at all times.
Tourists taking out travel policies to South Korea (pictured) showed a rise of 213 percent
‘It was a surreal experience – having no control over anything on the tour and being taken from place to place by guides and having to ask permission to take photographs, but also good to see normal North Koreans go about their daily lives.’
Brendon Dyer, General Manager Direct & Retail, Allianz Travel says the appeal to travel to Korea is enticing and rich but visitors need to have done their research before making travel arrangements.
‘Korea is an exciting and exotic destination, however with the current economic climate we urge travellers to take extra precaution and read up on the country’s laws and regulations before departure and always check the most up to date advice on the Australian Government Smart traveller website,’ he said in a statement.
Mr Dyer also urges tourists to read their travel insurance policy ahead of time to get a full understanding of what they are covered for.
‘If unsure, we suggest that travellers call their travel insurance provider to discuss.’
Visitors taking out travel policies ahead of a trip to France (pictured) is up by 103 percent