North Korea to Open New Tourism Site for Foreign Visitors

Introduction of the New Tourism Initiative

North Korea is preparing to unveil a new tourism site on its eastern coast, aiming to transform the current state of tourism within the country. This ambitious project is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the economy, although a specific timeline for when international tourists will be permitted to visit remains unconfirmed.

Details of the New Resort

The Wonsan-Kalma tourism area is designed to accommodate nearly 20,000 guests, featuring hotels and various lodging facilities. This expansive complex promises a diverse range of activities, including beach access, sports, leisure activities, dining options at restaurants and cafés, according to the country’s state-run news outlets.

Inauguration Ceremony

During a recent grand ceremony, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited the site and officially inaugurated it. He proclaimed the project’s completion as “start of the greatest successes of the year,” labeling it as the “first step” in the government’s strategy for tourism development, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). This initiative is part of larger efforts to position North Korea as a viable tourist destination and stimulate economic growth.

Local and International Tourism Regulations

The Wonsan-Kalma area is set to commence operations for local tourists in the coming week. However, there is currently no information indicating when international visitors may be able to access the site. Despite ambitious tourism plans, North Korea has not fully lifted travel restrictions that were implemented at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recent Tourism Trends

Since February 2024, North Korea has reopened its borders to Russian tourists amid growing military partnerships between the two nations. However, group tours from China, which constituted over 90% of visitors prior to the pandemic, have yet to receive approval to resume. A small cohort of international tourists was allowed to enter the country earlier this year, marking the first such visit in five years, though reports soon followed indicating that tours had been paused once again.

Conclusion

While the Wonsan-Kalma resort is heralded as a significant development in North Korea’s tourism strategy, potential travelers still face uncertainty regarding access and safety. The international community will be watching closely to see how this initiative unfolds and what it might mean for the future of tourism in North Korea.

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