Numerous runners participated, including approximately 200 foreign athletes, who ran a course through the city cheered on by local residents.

The marathon is a significant international sports event for the reclusive nation, and is held to commemorate the birthday of its founder, Kim Il Sung, on 15 April.

North Korea’s borders have largely remained closed due to the pandemic, and the race provided a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the tightly controlled capital.

Pyongyang maintains strict restrictions on tourism and foreign businesses, and the international athletes participating were brought in by a Beijing-based tour company which is an approved partner of the marathon.

According to the official North Korean state news agency KCNA, “athletes from China, Romania, Morocco, and Ethiopia” arrived to take part in the event.

Both the male and female races were won by North Korean participants.

Pak Gum Dong was the men’s marathon winner, crossing the finish line in two hours, 12 minutes, and 11 seconds.

Jon Su Gyong emerged as the winner of the women’s marathon, completing the race in two hours, 25 minutes, and 50 seconds.