 |
|
The unveiling of the Wonsan Kalma coastal resort in North Korea marks a significant, albeit cautiously viewed, attempt by the isolated nation to bolster its economy through tourism. Six years behind schedule, this ambitious project, spearheaded by Kim Jong-un, aims to transform the east coast town of Wonsan into a premier tourist destination, initially catering to domestic travelers with the eventual goal of attracting international visitors. The resort, boasting a sprawling 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) stretch of coastline, purportedly features a comprehensive range of amenities, including hotels, restaurants, shopping complexes, and a water park, with the capacity to accommodate up to 20,000 visitors. However, the accuracy of these claims remains unverified due to the inherent restrictions on independent assessments within North Korea. The choice of Wonsan as the location for this venture is not coincidental. Kim Jong-un spent part of his childhood in the area, where many of the country’s elite own private villas, suggesting a personal connection and a desire to showcase the region as a symbol of national progress. Adding a layer of intrigue, the site previously served as a missile testing ground, transforming from a symbol of military might to one of potential economic opportunity, at least on the surface. The opening ceremony, attended by Kim Jong-un, his wife Ri Sol Ju (making her first public appearance since January), and their daughter Kim Ju Ae, was presented as a momentous occasion, a “great, auspicious event of the whole country” and a “prelude to the new era” in tourism, as proclaimed by Kim himself. The presence of Russian ambassador Alexander Matsegora and his embassy staff at the ceremony further underscores the strengthening ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, a relationship that has become increasingly vital for North Korea in the face of international sanctions. The broader context surrounding the Wonsan Kalma resort’s opening is crucial to understanding its significance. North Korea remains one of the world’s most isolated and impoverished nations, heavily sanctioned due to its nuclear weapons program. Tourism, therefore, is viewed as a potential avenue for generating revenue, albeit one fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea allowed a limited number of foreign visitors, primarily from China and Russia, under strict government control. The pandemic led to the closure of borders in 2020, with only limited re-openings beginning in 2023. While North Korea briefly permitted some Western tourists earlier this year, including visitors from the UK, Germany, and Australia, these entries were abruptly halted without explanation weeks later, highlighting the unpredictable nature of tourism policies in the country. This inconsistent approach has led to cautious optimism among tour operators, with many expressing doubts about the immediate prospects for large-scale international tourism to Wonsan Kalma. Rowan Beard of Young Pioneer Tours, for example, noted that while the launch initially raised hopes for a broader opening, this “doesn’t seem to be the case for now.” He also suggested that the resort is “unlikely to be a major draw for most Western tourists” compared to established destinations like Pyongyang or the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
Despite these reservations, some industry experts believe that the Wonsan Kalma resort could appeal to a niche market of travelers seeking unique and offbeat experiences. Elliott Davies of Uri Tours argued that the resort offers an “intriguing” opportunity to experience a familiar concept – a beach resort – within the distinctive cultural context of North Korea. This perspective highlights the potential for the resort to attract tourists interested in venturing beyond the typical travel destinations and exploring the complexities of North Korean society. However, the success of Wonsan Kalma as a tourist destination will depend on several factors, including the political stability of the region, the easing of international sanctions, and the willingness of the North Korean government to implement consistent and transparent tourism policies. The resort's remote location and limited accessibility also pose significant challenges, requiring substantial investments in infrastructure and transportation. Furthermore, the potential for cultural clashes and misunderstandings between foreign tourists and the local population must be carefully managed to ensure a positive and respectful tourism experience. The opening of the Wonsan Kalma resort coincides with a period of intensified cooperation between North Korea and Russia, driven by shared geopolitical interests and a desire to counter Western influence. This growing alliance has manifested in various forms, including reports of North Korea sending troops to support Russia in Ukraine and the resumption of direct passenger rail service between the two countries' capitals for the first time since the pandemic. The strengthening of ties with Russia provides North Korea with a crucial lifeline in the face of international sanctions, offering access to vital resources, economic assistance, and diplomatic support. However, this alliance also carries risks, potentially deepening North Korea's isolation from the West and further complicating efforts to resolve the country's nuclear weapons program. In conclusion, the opening of the Wonsan Kalma coastal resort represents a complex and multifaceted development in North Korea's efforts to diversify its economy and engage with the outside world. While the resort holds the potential to generate revenue and attract tourists, its success will depend on a range of factors, including political stability, international relations, and the implementation of sound tourism policies. The project also underscores the growing alliance between North Korea and Russia, a relationship that has significant implications for the geopolitical landscape of the region.
The long-term viability of the Wonsan Kalma resort also hinges on North Korea's ability to address several fundamental challenges that have historically hampered its tourism industry. One key issue is the perception of safety and security among potential visitors. North Korea's reputation as an isolated and authoritarian state, coupled with its ongoing nuclear weapons program and strained relations with the international community, can deter many tourists from considering the country as a travel destination. To overcome this hurdle, North Korea needs to demonstrate a genuine commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of foreign visitors, providing transparent information about travel regulations and addressing any security concerns. Another critical factor is the quality of the tourism infrastructure and services available in North Korea. While the Wonsan Kalma resort boasts modern amenities and facilities, the overall standard of tourism infrastructure in the country remains relatively underdeveloped. This includes transportation networks, accommodation options, and the availability of trained guides and interpreters. To attract a wider range of tourists, North Korea needs to invest in upgrading its tourism infrastructure and providing high-quality services that meet international standards. The cultural sensitivity and awareness of tourism staff are also crucial for creating a positive and respectful experience for foreign visitors. This requires comprehensive training programs that educate staff about different cultural norms and expectations, ensuring that they can effectively communicate with and cater to the needs of tourists from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, North Korea needs to address the issue of limited access to information and freedom of movement for tourists. The strict government control over tourism in North Korea, including restrictions on where tourists can go and who they can interact with, can be off-putting to many potential visitors. Relaxing these restrictions and allowing tourists greater freedom of movement and interaction would significantly enhance the appeal of North Korea as a tourism destination. In addition to these practical considerations, North Korea also needs to address the ethical concerns surrounding tourism to the country. Some critics argue that tourism to North Korea can inadvertently support the regime and contribute to the perpetuation of human rights abuses. To mitigate these concerns, it is essential that tour operators and tourists alike are aware of the ethical implications of their travel and take steps to ensure that their activities do not directly or indirectly support the government's oppressive policies. This includes choosing tour operators that adhere to ethical principles and avoiding activities that could be construed as endorsements of the regime. Ultimately, the success of the Wonsan Kalma resort and the broader development of North Korea's tourism industry will depend on the country's willingness to embrace reform and engage constructively with the international community. By addressing the challenges outlined above and adopting a more open and transparent approach to tourism, North Korea can potentially unlock the economic benefits of this sector while also promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
Source: Kim Jong-un unveils missile site turned beach resort in North Korea, tourists may be next