Wojciech Kopeć, a Polish marathon runner, participated in the first post-pandemic open marathon in Pyongyang, North Korea. His account offers a unique perspective on daily life in the country, contrasting with the experiences of other influencers who had previously visited.
Kopeć describes observing relatively unrestrained daily life, including riding the subway with locals, visiting a pub and bowling alley, and noting the cleanliness and number of police officers directing traffic.
While acknowledging restrictions like those on photographing military objects and making gestures near monuments, he emphasizes the generally welcoming nature of the interactions he had with citizens.
Kopeć contrasts his experience with those of other influencers, who were confined to smaller, tightly controlled spaces. He highlights the freedom he had to run a 21km route through the city, experiencing more unscripted interactions with locals.
Kopeć addresses criticism regarding spending money in North Korea, emphasizing his focus on athletic achievement and his extensive international running experience.