How do North Korean citizens perceive foreign participation in the marathon?

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North Korean citizens appeared to cheer on participants in the Pyongyang Marathon.

Hundreds of North Korean citizens were observed cheering on both foreign and elite North Korean runners during the recent Pyongyang International Marathon. Spectators were also seen in the stands, some appearing to cheer with sticks, as citizens gathered to watch the event. The marathon provides a rare occasion for visitors to run through the capital and engage with the local population.
Public presence and engagement

Images captured during the 31st Pyongyang International Marathon depicted North Korean citizens lining the streets and gathering to observe the race. These visuals suggest a level of public engagement with the event, including the presence of spectators actively cheering for the runners.
Rare opportunity for interaction

The Pyongyang Marathon is noted as a unique experience that offers participants an opportunity to interact with locals. This aspect is highlighted by travel agencies organising trips for foreign runners, emphasizing the distinctive nature of the event within the tightly controlled capital.
Context of the event

The marathon, held to commemorate the birth of founding leader Kim Il-sung, marks the largest international sporting event in North Korea since its borders largely closed due to the pandemic in 2019. The event's return signifies a step towards reopening, with an estimated 180 overseas runners expected to participate this year, compared to around 950 in 2019.

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How do North Korean citizens perceive foreign participation in the marathon?

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