U.S. State Department reaffirms Level 4 travel ban to North Korea amid arrest risks

The State Department reiterated its Level 4 advisory urging Americans not to travel to North Korea, warning of a serious risk of arrest and prolonged detention.

Washington’s State Department has once again warned U.S. citizens against any travel to North Korea, maintaining a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory that highlights a serious threat of arrest and long-term detention. The statement came after Yonhap News Agency asked for comment on former special envoy Robert King’s call to ease the travel ban that has been in place since 2017. While emphasizing President Donald Trump’s openness to dialogue with Pyongyang, the department noted that Secretary Marco Rubio has extended the geographic travel restriction that renders U.S. passports invalid for journeys to, within, or through the country.

The ban, originally triggered by the detention and death of Otto Warmbier, is set to remain in effect until August 31 of the following year, following a Federal Register notice. King argues that the prohibition hampers the delivery of humanitarian assistance, though he acknowledges concerns about inexperienced tourists. The administration continues to prioritize American safety while keeping diplomatic channels open.