Moderate riskAsia · Eastern AsiaNorth Korea Travel Health Guide
Moderate risk
North Korea carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists in southern provinces of North Korea. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Overall risk
Moderate risk
Malaria
Present
Best time to visit
Year-round
Recommended vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Make sure all routine vaccines are current before travel, including chickenpox, tetanus, flu, MMR, polio, and shingles vaccines.
COVID-19
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before traveling.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travelers to North Korea age 1 and older. Special dosing may be needed for infants, older adults, or those with health conditions.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all unvaccinated travelers to North Korea regardless of age.
Measles
Measles vaccine (MMR) is essential for all travelers due to rising cases worldwide. Infants 6-11 months need an early dose.
Typhoid
Typhoid vaccine is recommended for most travelers to North Korea, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with local contacts.
Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis vaccine is recommended for long-term travelers (1+ months) or those doing outdoor activities in rural areas. Not needed for short urban trips.
Rabies
Consider rabies vaccination before travel if you'll be around animals or in remote areas, as rabid dogs are common and treatment may not be available.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever vaccine is not needed for North Korea unless you're coming from a country with yellow fever risk.
Disease risks
Malaria
Malaria risk exists in southern provinces of North Korea. Take antimalarial medication as prescribed if traveling to these areas.
Traveler's Diarrhea
Limited data; rural areas likely pose higher risk.
Malaria risk
Malaria is present in this destination. Prophylaxis medication is recommended.
Malaria risk exists in southern provinces of North Korea. Take antimalarial medication as prescribed if traveling to these areas.
Emergency numbers
Police
119
Medical / Ambulance
119
Fire
119
North Korea travel health FAQ
Do I need vaccines to travel to North Korea?▼
For travel to North Korea, Routine Vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles and Typhoid are recommended; Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies and Yellow Fever may be advised depending on your itinerary. Make sure your routine vaccinations (such as MMR, Tdap, polio and seasonal flu) are up to date, and see a travel-health provider about 4–6 weeks before you leave.
Is there malaria in North Korea?▼
Yes — malaria is present in North Korea. Antimalarial prophylaxis is recommended for most travelers, alongside insect-bite precautions such as repellent and treated bed nets.
Is it safe to travel to North Korea?▼
From a travel-health standpoint, North Korea is currently rated moderate risk. North Korea carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists in southern provinces of North Korea. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
What are the emergency phone numbers in North Korea?▼
Key emergency numbers in North Korea are Police 119, Medical / Ambulance 119 and Fire 119. Save them before you travel and confirm the current numbers with your accommodation on arrival.
More country guides
ChinaLow riskChina carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. No malaria risk. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Hong KongLow riskHong Kong carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. No malaria risk. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
JapanLow riskJapan carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. No malaria risk. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
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Build my Trip KitSources: CDC Travelers' Health · WHO International Travel and Health. Last updated 2026-07-31. Health conditions and entry rules change — verify with the CDC, WHO and your destination’s authorities before travel. This page is informational and not a substitute for advice from a travel-medicine provider.