The number of North Korean residents permitted to visit relatives in China has decreased significantly from last year during the same period. 

On August 22, a source in China reported to the Daily NK, "In August, there are usually no large events taking place in North Korea, so it's usually easier for people to visit family members in China then; this year though, that doesn't seem to be happening." He went on to explain the reasoning behind the decline, "There is testimony that the North Korean authorities are actively curtailing the number of those going to China for this purpose."

North Korean residents traversing the border to visit family members in China began in 2000, just after the period of the famine, referred to as the "Arduous March".  

This month has seen daily averages of five North Korean travelers pass through the Dandong Customs House, a sharp decline from the 50-100 individuals who moved through on a given day in past years, an indication that the North Korean authorities have drastically reduced visas permitting these visitations.

The source interpreted this not as an anomaly, but rather as a measure instigated by a regime gaining confidence in its economic status. This year did see record-breaking trade activity between China and North Korea and the relative stabilization of market prices in the North. The North Korean authorities are trying to solve these matters domestically; with concurrent attempts to cultivate a better image internationally.

The upcoming September 9th holiday, which marks the founding date of the state, and October 10th, the day that the Chosun Workers' Party was founded, are both expected to yield even fewer people able to enter China to visit family members. While there is always the possibility for the North Korean authorities to expand permission again after the events end, the downward trend is expected to continue.

SOURCE:DAILY NK