In brief
The Wonsan Kalma resort, unveiled by Kim Jong Un last month as a prime tourist destination, is surrounded by claims of human rights violations during its development. BBC Verify reports that many workers were subject to harsh conditions, including forced labor. The resort was originally intended to attract one million visitors but has faced challenges in attracting tourists due to North Korea's isolation. While the first tours from Russia have commenced, experts doubt its popularity compared to other international destinations.
In recent weeks, North Korea's new Wonsan Kalma resort has made headlines as it receives its first group of Russian tourists. This sprawling beach resort was opened by Kim Jong Un, who characterized it as an exclusive "world-class tourist and cultural destination." However, the conditions surrounding its rapid construction have drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organizations, highlighting the exploitation of laborers during the building process.Analyses conducted by BBC Verify reveal troubling insights into the construction practices employed in North Korea. There are serious allegations that individuals worked under oppressive conditions as part of "shock brigades" — groups notorious for the demanding hours and inadequate compensation. Workers faced extreme fatigue and harsh circumstances, raising ethical concerns over the human cost behind such a high-profile project.The impetus for creating this resort can largely be traced back to Kim Jong Un’s childhood memories of Wonsan, which was previously a haven for North Korea's elite tourists. However, despite the grand ambitions to cater to international visitors, initial efforts to draw substantial tourism have yet to bear fruit. While some Russian tour companies have started to offer packages, the pricing is relatively high compared to the average earnings in Russia, making it less attractive to potential travelers.Local testimonies from defectors further amplify the disquiet surrounding the Wonsan Kalma project, illustrating how residents faced displacement due to the construction. As North Korea attempts to reopen its doors to international tourism, the reality remains complicated by prior experiences of oppression and a lack of transparency in the nation, leaving many to question the sustainability of this luxury tourism venture amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
