In brief
The resort, opening July 1, 2023, is positioned for domestic tourists first, with international access still uncertain amid the nation’s economic struggles.
North Korea is diving into the tourism market with the launch of a new beach resort, Wonsan Kalma, on July 1, 2023. Aimed at revitalizing the economy, its leader, Kim Jong Un, is hopeful that this coastal zone will attract visitors, despite being isolated for decades due to heavy sanctions and its nuclear ambitions.The beach resort, located on the country's east coast, is said to have accommodations for up to 20,000 tourists, featuring hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and even a water park, though these claims remain unverified. This opening comes six years behind schedule due to construction delays and the COVID-19 pandemic.Tourism has been a significant hit, especially since North Korea closed its borders in early 2020. Though some foreign tourists were welcomed back in 2023, currently only visitors from Russia are allowed. Observers are skeptical about the resort's appeal to international travelers, considering typical attractions include landmarks in Pyongyang.Nevertheless, some see value in visiting a unique destination like Wonsan, which has been largely remade by the Kim regime.While opening ceremonies included Kim's family and the Russian ambassador, the long-term impact on tourism remains to be seen. As the world watches, Wonsan Kalma could either be a new beginning or another case of unfulfilled potential for North Korea.
