The Tourism Ministry of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea today announced a full ban on visitors to the country bringing Newcastle United shirts with them, describing them as a "corrupting ideological influence".
Kim Choe Son, a ministry spokesman, told KNCA news that "Under state restrictions on religious activity, we have classified Newcastle United Football club as a religious organisation due to the zealous beliefs and superstitions of their supporters. Although all people are welcome to visit our country, we seek to protect the locals from corrupting ideological influences which may lead them astray"
The ban will come to a devastating blow to the clubs's fans, who pride themselves on wearing their shirts throughout all locations of the world. Although it is unknown how many visitors from the North East have visited the DPRK, western tourist numbers have been on the increase in recent years.
The club did not respond to a request for comment.
