Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone: North Korea’s New Tourist Destination
Construction on the Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist zone, situated on North Korea’s east coast, has finally reached completion, with the grand opening scheduled for July 1. This ambitious project, reported by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), aims to transform part of North Korea into a vibrant tourist hub. The extensive resort is designed to accommodate nearly 20,000 guests, featuring a blend of luxury and recreational facilities.
A Look Inside the Resort’s Features
Stretching along a picturesque 2.5 miles of coastline, the Wonsan Kalma complex boasts an impressive array of facilities, including houses, hotels, and hostels. Visitors can enjoy sea-bathing areas, sports and recreational amenities, as well as both commercial and public catering services. KCNA describes the resort as a "world-class cultural resort," intended to provide visitors with an enchanting glimpse of the scenic beauty that North Korea’s east coast has to offer throughout the seasons.
Kim Jong Un’s Vision for Tourism
During the opening ceremony, which Kim Jong Un attended with his daughter and wife—a notable public appearance after several months—he expressed his pride in the project, labeling it one of the country’s "greatest successes this year." The North Korean leader emphasized that this new tourist zone should play a pivotal role in fostering a robust tourist culture in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), marking a significant shift towards international engagement through tourism.
High-Profile Guests and Symbolic Moments
The ceremonial occasion was graced by other dignitaries, including the Russian Ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora. Kim’s wife, Ri Sol-ju, drew media attention by carrying an expensive Gucci handbag—an intriguing detail given the UN’s restrictions on luxury goods entering the country. This interplay of opulence amidst the backdrop of international sanctions highlights the unique complexities of North Korean society.
A Long Journey to Completion
Initially launched in 2014, the Wonsan tourist zone faced numerous delays before its unveiling. Originally slated for opening in April 2019, the project suffered setbacks caused by international sanctions, which restricted essential materials, as well as the global COVID-19 pandemic, which led to widespread closures. These hurdles have pushed the resort’s launch date several years into the future, making the upcoming opening particularly significant.
Domestic Opening Amidst Uncertain International Tourism
As the resort opens its doors, it will primarily welcome domestic visitors. Foreign tourism remains uncertain, as North Korea has tightly controlled its borders since the onset of the pandemic in January 2020. This closure has significantly impacted the nation’s economy, which relies on international visitors for foreign currency—a vital resource for the sanctions-stricken regime.
Erasing Borders: A Glimpse into Post-Pandemic Travel
Despite the harsh restrictions, some signs of renewed travel between countries are emerging. Russian travelers became the first international visitors to return to North Korea after COVID-19, with Air Koryo flights resuming connections from Vladivostok. Recently, reports have surfaced about the direct resumption of rail services between Pyongyang and Moscow, signaling a thaw in cross-border travel.
The Challenges Ahead
Though there are glimpses of optimism regarding tourism, international travel to North Korea remains highly restricted, particularly for Western tourists. Several travel agencies have attempted to reignite interest in North Korea, offering limited tours that were abruptly halted after just a few weeks. Furthermore, the United States continues to warn against travel to North Korea due to safety concerns, extending its travel ban for another year.
As the Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist zone prepares to welcome its first guests, it stands as a symbol of North Korea’s attempts to open up to the world while navigating the complex web of international relations and economic challenges. With the right marketing and management, this resort could play a significant role in shaping the future landscape of North Korean tourism.
