Rason (formerly Rajin-Sŏnbong; Korean pronunciation: [ɾa.sʌ̹n, ɾa.dʑin.sʰʌ̹n.boŋ]) is a North Korean special city and ice-free port [3] in the Sea of Japan in the North Pacific Ocean on the northeast tip of North Korea. It is in the Kwanbuk region and location of the Rason Special Economic Zone.

The Rason Special Economic Zone, earlier called the Rajin-Sonbong Economic Special Zone, [1] was established by the North Korean government at Rason, bordering China and Russia, in 1991 to promote economic growth through foreign investment. [2]

Jan 16, 2025 · Visitors in Rason can discover factories, the bustling port, a language institute, a taekwondo training center, and even a local bank. It’s also the only place where foreigners can visit a local market: a rare chance to experience day-to-day life in North Korea first hand.

Jan 16, 2025 · There has been news that Rason, located in the northeast of North Korea, has officially opened for tourism. Whilst we have been informed it has officially opened, as of yet we do not have confirmed itineraries and prices for tourists.

May 20, 2020 · Rason is famous for being the first, and largest, of North Korea’s special economic zones. Situated in the far northeast of the country, the only part of North Korea that borders both Russia and China ( Jilin Province ), it is one of North Korea's least visited areas, and more logistically difficult to access than other areas in North Korea.

Rason is the kind of place that is rarely visited on a first trip to North Korea and, while it lacks the razzmatazz of Pyongyang, it makes for a superb return trip to the DPRK, or as we like to say “the other North Korea”.

Jan 17, 2025 · What the Rason? The Rason Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a fascinating chapter in North Korea’s cautious flirtation with market reform. Established in 1991, it was one of the country’s first attempts to create a space for foreign investment and international trade.

Dec 16, 2014 · Ruediger Frank offers a unique account of North Korea's Rason Special Economic Zone as it operates today.

Jan 16, 2025 · Rason gives tourists the opportunity to see the business side of the DPRK with visits to factories, the port, a foreign language school, a taekwondo school, a North Korean bank and more! Rason is also the only city in North Korea where foreigners can visit the market.

Aug 14, 2019 · How to travel to North Korea’s special economic zone, Rason, from Beijing, China, and everything you need to know about visiting, including visas.