In brief
North Korea's ambitious tourism initiative faces a setback as its newly opened Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone restricts entry to foreign tourists despite prior promotions for international visitors.
North Korea has made a surprising decision to prohibit foreign tourists from entering the recently inaugurated Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone. Officially opened on July 1, this seaside resort was marketed as a centerpiece of leader Kim Jong Un's strategy to enhance tourism across the nation. However, as announced this week via the government’s tourism website, foreigners will be "temporarily" barred from visiting.Coincidentally, just last week, a group of Russian tourists was welcomed at the resort, following a significant diplomatic visit by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to Kim Jong Un. During this meeting in Wonsan, Lavrov praised the resort as a promising tourist destination, expressing optimism that it would attract many Russians, especially with new direct flights planned between Moscow and Pyongyang by month’s end.The Wonsan city area, situated on the eastern coast of North Korea, is also known for its missile facilities and significant maritime infrastructure. Kim Jong Un spent considerable time here during his youth, adjacent to luxurious holiday homes of the elite. The coastal resort features a 4 km beachfront lined with hotels, restaurants, shopping outlets, and a water park, boasting a capacity of approximately 20,000 guests, according to state media.Nonetheless, the project's construction has attracted criticism and concern from human rights organizations due to allegations of poor working conditions and inadequate compensation for laborers, some of whom reportedly endured long hours to complete the venture.Russian diplomats were present at the completion of the project on June 24, alongside Kim and family. Following a lengthy COVID-19 hiatus, North Korea had started welcoming Russian tourists again last year. It also opened its doors to visitors from Australia, France, Germany, and the UK in February, though this initiative was abruptly reversed just a few weeks later without explanation. As the Wonsan resort's potential fades for international tourists, its future remains uncertain amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
