North Korea has just officially put into operation Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area located along the east coast, introduced as "world-class" and with its own unique style. According to state news agency KCNA, this is part of efforts to build tourism paradises throughout North Korea.
The complex is 4km long, including hundreds of new buildings with hotels that can serve up to 20,000 visitors. This place provides full amenities for entertainment all year round, from beaches, sports, shopping to cultural events.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un cut the ribbon to inaugurate and directly inspect items such as hotels and water parks. He called this event a "proud first step" in implementing the cultural tourism development policy set by the party and government.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Russian Ambassador to North Korea and the Embassy staff, described as a "special guest". This year, North Korean soldiers have supported Russia in repelling the Ukrainian offensive in the Kursk region, demonstrating the increasingly close relationship between the two countries.
The resort will start serving domestic tourists from July 1. Western media said the area was designed to attract Russian visitors, as the two countries are promoting tourism cooperation.
Russia's Primorsky region authorities confirmed that there will be group tours to North Korea departing in July, combined with coastal resorts and sightseeing in the capital Pyongyang.
Russian press said that the 8-day vacation packages in this area cost around $1,800 per person. In 2024, more than 1,500 Russian tourists visited North Korea.
Tourists coming to North Korea will still comply with strict regulations such as requiring tour guides, strictly controlled schedules, not allowed to take photos in sensitive areas and being prohibited from carrying certain documents.
