In brief
The Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, set to open July 1, aims to attract domestic visitors and bolster the country's economy.
North Korea has announced the upcoming opening of a beach resort on its east coast, an initiative spearheaded by leader Kim Jong Un to bolster tourism efforts, as reported by state media. The Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, with an official opening date scheduled for July 1, is positioned to welcome domestic tourists after years of delays, while the timeline for international guests remains uncertain.Covering a 4-kilometer stretch of shore, the resort boasts facilities purportedly capable of housing 20,000 visitors, complete with hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and even a water park. However, these claims are difficult to independently verify. North Korea, subject to heavy international sanctions due to its nuclear ambitions, is considered one of the poorest nations globally and traditionally invests heavily in its military as well as propaganda landmarks that promote the ruling Kim family's legacy.Experts and observers suggest that the release of Wonsan Kalma could be an attempt by the regime to generate income amidst ongoing economic hardships. With limited tourism allowed during the pandemic, the borders were shut in early 2020, only reopening in mid-2023 for select Russian visitors. The country did initially welcome tourists from the West in February 2023, but abruptly halted this influx without explanation weeks later.Many tour companies express skepticism about the resort's appeal to international travelers. Some speculate that foreign interest may lean more towards traditional sites in North Korea, such as Pyongyang and historical landmarks, rather than a beach setting. Despite this hesitation, there is a belief among some tour operators that the unique cultural context of North Korea could draw niche audiences seeking unconventional travel experiences.The construction of the Wonsan Kalma resort had faced significant delays, with its initial completion date slated for October 2019. Kim marked what was termed a "great, auspicious event" for the country on June 24, celebrating the project's completion alongside high-profile attendees, including his family and staff from the Russian embassy. As North Korea continues to navigate international partnerships, especially amid escalating tensions with the West, the resort's opening indicates strategic steps toward re-establishing connections, particularly with Russian tourists.As international tourism presents challenges for North Korea in the post-pandemic world, the aspirations tied to the launch of Wonsan Kalma illustrate the regime's desire to diversify its revenue sources and attract interest amidst ongoing global isolation.
