Pyongyang, November 17 (KCNA) -- Since the DPRK took measures to promote tourism, many foreign tourists have come to the country.

This year the DPRK issued a decree on establishing the Special Zone for International Tour of Mt. Kumgang.

A large number of foreign tourists have enjoyed sightseeing in the famous mountain from June.

Among them were a Liaoning provincial party and government delegation of China, a Chinese tourist group by the Pyongyang-Xi'an international air service and commanding officers of a Chinese navy flotilla.

A trial Rason-Mt. Kumgang international tourism through a sea route also took place.

Reporters from China, Russia, France, the United States and other countries were aboard the ship to cover the tourism.

The ship Mangyongbong carried foreign tourists from Rason City in the northeastern tip of Korea to Mt. Kumgang through the East Sea of Korea.

The tourism including both sea and land sightseeing attracted great interest of foreigners.

A trial Harbin-Mt. Kumgang tourist group came to the DPRK by a chartered flight.

The group enjoyed amazing views of Kuryong Waterfall, Singye Temple, Lagoon Samil and Sea Kumgang.

Another Chinese tourist group arrived in Mt. Chilbo by train through Namyang Railway Station in Onsong County, North Hamgyong Province to tour its scenic spots.

The first Shanghai tourist group, through the Pyongyang-Shanghai air service, visited Mangyongdae, the Tower of the Juche Idea, Arch of Triumph, Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum, Pyongyang Metro and Friendship Tower.

The first Chinese tourist group by the Pyongyang-Harbin air service visited the International Friendship Exhibition House, Mangyongdae Schoolchildren's Palace, Panmunjom and other places of the country. It also appreciated the grand gymnastic and artistic performance "Arirang."

The Illinois-based Asia-Pacific Tourist Agency plans to organize tours of Mt. Paektu, Mt. Kumgang and other places in Korea next year.