North Korea has officially opened a large new seaside resort in the eastern coastal city of Wonsan, known as the Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone. The opening ceremony took place on June 24, 2025, and was personally led by Kim Jong Un, who has visited the site multiple times to oversee construction. North Korean state media described the resort as a “national treasure-level tourism city.”
The resort includes waterparks, high-rise hotels, beaches, shops, and restaurants, and is reportedly capable of accommodating up to 20,000 guests. It is supported by newly upgraded infrastructure, including Kalma Station, reopened earlier in June, and a nearby international airport designed to facilitate access by foreign visitors.
Only Russian officials were present at the grand opening, signaling deepening ties between North Korea and Russia. No Western diplomats or media were invited, highlighting North Korea’s continued isolation from much of the international community.
Russian travel companies have announced plans to bring tourists to the resort, with the first group trips expected to begin in early July 2025. Tour packages cost between $1,400 and $1,800, and typically include stops in Wonsan, Pyongyang, and the Masikryong ski resort.
Although the resort is being promoted as a symbol of national development, experts believe it will primarily serve North Korea’s political elite and select foreign guests, rather than the general population. The country continues to experience significant economic hardship, including ongoing food shortages exacerbated by years of border closures and international sanctions.
Tourism is one of the few legal ways for North Korea to earn foreign currency under current restrictions. In December 2024, the country reopened Samjiyon, a northern tourist hub, to visitors from China. More destinations are expected to follow as North Korea cautiously reopens.
However, all foreign visitors are subject to strict rules, including surveillance, controlled itineraries, and limitations on photography. Despite these challenges, tourism remains part of Kim Jong Un’s broader strategy to show that his leadership is focused on both defense and economic revival.
The appearance of First Lady Ri Sol-ju and their daughter Kim Ju-ae at the resort’s opening ceremony was noted by international media, suggesting a carefully managed display of national unity and leadership continuity.
While the Wonsan-Kalma resort is now open to North Korean residents, full access for international tourists is still pending. For now, it appears the resort will mostly serve the country’s elite and carefully selected foreign visitors, especially Russians.
