The resort had welcomed its first batch of Russian tourists just before the announcement, coinciding with a meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Kim in Wonsan. Lavrov praised the coastal project as a promising tourist destination and expressed hopes for its popularity among Russian visitors. Plans for direct flights connecting Moscow and Pyongyang are expected to take off by the end of this month, further igniting interest.
Situated on North Korea's east coast, Wonsan is known for its military facilities and maritime complex, alongside being a personal retreat for Kim during his youth. The resort boasts a beach stretching 4 km, adorned with hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and a water park, accommodating around 20,000 guests as per state media reports.
However, the construction of this resort faced scrutiny from human rights organizations, which highlighted allegations of labor exploitation, including reports of workers enduring long hours under poor conditions with inadequate pay. Notably, the completion ceremony held on June 24 drew the attendance of Russian diplomats alongside Kim's family.
Last year marked the resumption of Russian tourism to North Korea following a hiatus during the pandemic, and in February, the country also welcomed visitors from the West, including Australia, France, Germany, and the UK. However, this initiative was abruptly halted without explanation a few weeks later.
As North Korea maneuvers through its complicated tourism strategy, the future of the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone remains uncertain, particularly as human rights concerns and international relations take center stage.
Situated on North Korea's east coast, Wonsan is known for its military facilities and maritime complex, alongside being a personal retreat for Kim during his youth. The resort boasts a beach stretching 4 km, adorned with hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and a water park, accommodating around 20,000 guests as per state media reports.
However, the construction of this resort faced scrutiny from human rights organizations, which highlighted allegations of labor exploitation, including reports of workers enduring long hours under poor conditions with inadequate pay. Notably, the completion ceremony held on June 24 drew the attendance of Russian diplomats alongside Kim's family.
Last year marked the resumption of Russian tourism to North Korea following a hiatus during the pandemic, and in February, the country also welcomed visitors from the West, including Australia, France, Germany, and the UK. However, this initiative was abruptly halted without explanation a few weeks later.
As North Korea maneuvers through its complicated tourism strategy, the future of the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone remains uncertain, particularly as human rights concerns and international relations take center stage.
