As tensions ease in North Korea’s capital, some 400 runners from more than 40 countries and territories compete in its annual race.
PYONGYANG, North Korea — Hundreds of foreigners took part in the annual marathon in Pyongyang on Sunday, despite political tensions that have only recently begun to ease and a ban on United States citizens traveling to North Korea that is in effect.
Approximately 400 foreign amateurs joined the marathon, less than half the number that came last year. They came from approximately 43 countries and territories around the world.
Disabled people were allowed to join the race, officially known as the Mangyongdae Prize International Marathon, for the first time in its history. One wheelchair runner from Singapore and one blind North Korean runner participated.
This year the marathon began in Kim Il Sung Stadium and wound past Pyongyang landmarks like Kim Il Sung Square and Mirae Street, one of the North Korean capital’s recent redevelopment projects.
