In an unexpected twist, North Korea has announced that foreign tourists will be temporarily banned from the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, which had just opened on July 1. Initially promoted as a key component of Kim Jong Un's strategy to enhance tourism in the country, the seaside resort was recently welcomed by the first group of Russian tourists, coinciding with a diplomatic visit from Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov. While the resort features luxurious amenities designed to attract visitors, concerns about labor conditions and human rights issues related to its construction have surfaced. Notably, this decision follows a brief period when the country resumed accepting foreign tourists after pandemic-related restrictions.
North Korea Halts Foreign Tourism at New Seaside Resort Soon After Launch
North Korea Halts Foreign Tourism at New Seaside Resort Soon After Launch
North Korea bars foreigners from visiting its coastal tourist zone aimed at boosting tourism sector.
The newly inaugurated Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, a significant project under Kim Jong Un's tourism strategy, faced an abrupt ban on foreign visitors just weeks after its opening. The notice came as a surprise as the resort had been marketed as a key attraction for both domestic and international tourists. Despite recently hosting Russian tourists, including during Lavrov's meeting with Kim, North Korea’s tourism website now states that foreigners are prohibited. This raises questions about the nation’s tourism goals, especially after allowing limited foreign tourism last year following an extended hiatus due to the pandemic.
Located on North Korea's eastern coast, Wonsan is known for its missile development facilities and was a childhood retreat for Kim. The extensive seaside complex includes hotels, restaurants, and even a water park, designed to accommodate up to 20,000 guests. However, labor rights organizations have expressed serious concerns about the working conditions faced by those involved in building the resort, citing reports of forced labor, long hours, and inadequate pay. Prior to its completion in late June, Russian officials celebrated the project, raising speculation over future tourism ties between the two countries as direct flights are planned.
Located on North Korea's eastern coast, Wonsan is known for its missile development facilities and was a childhood retreat for Kim. The extensive seaside complex includes hotels, restaurants, and even a water park, designed to accommodate up to 20,000 guests. However, labor rights organizations have expressed serious concerns about the working conditions faced by those involved in building the resort, citing reports of forced labor, long hours, and inadequate pay. Prior to its completion in late June, Russian officials celebrated the project, raising speculation over future tourism ties between the two countries as direct flights are planned.
