In Sept. 2017, following the death of American college student Otto Warmbier, Washington banned U.S. passport holders from traveling to North Korea.

Four years later, the prohibition is still in effect. The U.S. State Department is expected to announce soon whether to extend the ban, as it is set to expire on Aug. 31.

Ahead of the deadline, activists and humanitarian organizations met with U.S. government officials on Aug. 17 to discuss the travel restriction. 

One humanitarian worker present at the meeting told NK Newsthat while he sees the importance of ensuring the safety of U.S. citizens, the severity