Kim Jong Un’s new beach resort opens to 20,000 as tourism push targets Russian visitors

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North Korea will open a new beach resort capable of hosting 20,000 people this summer. The Wonsan Kalma resort is reportedly designed to attract tourism to the reclusive nation.

The development stretches 2.5 miles along the country’s east coast. It includes hotels, malls, restaurants, and a water park.

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The Context

The resort was completed six years after its original target date. Its construction has been delayed repeatedly amid sanctions and economic struggles.

Wonsan Kalma is near Kim Jong Un’s childhood area and an elite residential zone. It is also home to private villas used by North Korea’s leadership.

The regime reportedly plans to first open the resort to domestic tourists. Visitors from China and Russia may follow in later phases.

North Korea remains largely closed to Western tourism due to strict entry rules and global sanctions. It is unclear whether the resort will ever be accessible to other foreigners.

Supporters of the project say it could generate much-needed revenue and display modern infrastructure. Critics argue it masks systemic issues and may serve propaganda purposes.

Tourism has long been a limited but valuable source of foreign currency for the regime. Projects like this may also be used to showcase stability and leadership strength.