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PYONGYANG, North Korea – In a bold move to boost its tourism sector, North Korea has officially opened the Wonsan-Kalma seaside resort town, aiming to attract both domestic and international visitors.
Breaking: Wonsan-Kalma Resort Welcomes Visitors
North Korea has inaugurated its Wonsan-Kalma beach resort development as of July 1, 2025. This ambitious project, sprawling over 605 acres along a 3.5-mile beach, features an array of leisure facilities, including thousands of hotel rooms. The resort is situated approximately 100 miles from Pyongyang, accessible by a two-hour road trip, and is serviced by a dual-use civil and military airport with a 10,000-foot runway.
Immediate Impact
The opening of the Wonsan-Kalma resort marks a significant step for North Korea, as it seeks to expand its tourism industry despite its historical isolation. The development, initially planned to open in 2019, faced delays due to the pandemic and other challenges, but construction resumed in 2023 under the supervision of Kim Jong Un.
Key Details Emerge
The seaside project, now capable of accommodating 20,000 visitors at a time, was personally attended by Kim Jong Un during its grand opening. Kim emphasized the importance of high service standards and additional attractions, such as an amusement park and shopping malls, to make it a “world-class” destination.
By the Numbers
- 605 acres of development area
- 3.5-mile beachfront
- Capacity for 20,000 visitors at a time
- 100 miles from Pyongyang
- 10,000-foot runway at the nearby airport
Industry Response
Tourism experts are skeptical about the potential success of the Wonsan-Kalma resort, given North Korea’s limited history with international tourism. The country had previously allowed only guided group tours, ensuring visitors saw only government-approved sites.
What Comes Next
Initially, the resort will cater to domestic tourists, with plans to eventually welcome international visitors from “friendly” nations, such as Russia and China. Russian tourists were given an exclusive preview of the resort last year, indicating potential future collaborations.
Background Context
North Korea’s tourism sector has been largely undeveloped, with the pandemic further stalling any progress. The Wonsan-Kalma project, however, is part of a broader strategy to modernize and open up select areas of the country to foreign investment and tourism.
Expert Analysis
According to analysts, the success of the Wonsan-Kalma resort will depend on North Korea’s ability to maintain a stable and inviting environment for tourists, while balancing its strict control over foreign visitors.
Regional Implications
The development of the Wonsan-Kalma resort could signal a shift in North Korea’s approach to economic development, potentially paving the way for more open interactions with neighboring countries and the global community.
Timeline of Events
- 2018: Construction begins on Wonsan-Kalma resort
- 2019: Initial opening planned but delayed
- 2023: Construction resumes
- 2025: Official opening on July 1
Future Implications
The opening of the Wonsan-Kalma resort raises questions about North Korea’s future in tourism. Will it become a genuine leisure destination, or remain a curiosity for the few who manage to visit? Only time will tell if this development will thrive or face challenges similar to past ambitious projects.
