North Korea Withholds Access to New Resort for Foreign Tourists

North Korea's recently inaugurated Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, part of Kim Jong Un's tourism ambitions, has announced a temporary ban on foreign tourists. This shift comes shortly after the resort's opening, which welcomed its first Russian tourists. Although marketed as an attraction for all, human rights concerns shadow the resort’s development.

North Korea has recently declared that the newly established Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone will be closed to foreign visitors, despite having just opened its doors on July 1. This seaside resort was a significant part of Kim Jong Un's strategy to enhance tourism in the country, marketed as a prime spot for both locals and international travelers. However, a notice on the nation’s tourism website specifies that foreign access is currently "temporarily" suspended.

Just last week, some Russian tourists were reported to have arrived at the Wonsan resort, coinciding with a visit from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. During his visit, Lavrov commented on the resort, labeling it as a "good tourist attraction," and expressed hopes of increased Russian interest. Plans have been announced for direct flights between Moscow and Pyongyang by month’s end, which could potentially alter the landscape of tourism in the region.

Located along North Korea’s eastern coast, Wonsan is home to several of the country’s military facilities and holds historical significance for Kim, who spent much of his youth in the area. The coastal development spans a 4km stretch of beachfront and boasts accommodations for around 20,000 visitors, featuring hotels, restaurants, and a water park.

Nevertheless, the construction of this lavish resort since 2018 has faced scrutiny from human rights organizations, who have reported labor abuses, including excessive working hours and poor compensation for workers forced to meet demanding construction deadlines.

Previously, North Korea had permitted Russian tourists to visit following a long pause due to the pandemic. Tormented by past bans, Western tourists were also briefly welcomed last year from nations such as Australia and the UK, only for tourism to be cut off without explanation soon after.