North Korea Unveils Wonsan–Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, Eyes Gradual Tourism Expansion
- Discovering Hospitality
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has officially inaugurated the Wonsan–Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, a major beach resort development on the country’s eastern coast. Designed to accommodate up to 20,000 guests, the sprawling complex features waterparks, modern high-rise hotels, and a variety of accommodation options.
The grand opening ceremony was held on June 25 and was attended by Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un, members of his family, and the Russian Ambassador to North Korea, underscoring the project’s geopolitical and economic significance.
According to state media, the resort will begin welcoming domestic travelers starting July 1. While no formal announcements have been made regarding eligibility for foreign visitors, the presence of a newly opened train stationand proximity to an international airport suggest ambitions to develop the zone into an international tourist destination.
First announced in 2013, the Kalma beach resort has faced numerous setbacks, including international sanctions, material shortages, and delays stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Construction resumed in 2024, with reports indicating Russian support may have contributed to the project’s completion.
As part of the initial phase of international engagement, a Vladivostok-based travel agency has launched three curated tour packages to Kalma between July and August, priced at approximately USD $1,840. These tours include round-trip flights to Wonsan, accommodation at the beach resort, and a visit to the Masikryong Ski Resort.
Despite these developments, infrastructure limitations—such as restricted air capacity between Pyongyang and Vladivostok—may limit initial tourist inflow to around 170 visitors per day. Group tours from China, once a major source of tourism, remain suspended since early 2020.
While North Korea considers tourism a non-sanctioned revenue source, international travelers are reminded that certain joint ventures or bulk cash transactions may still fall under UN sanctions. The DPRK has yet to clarify whether additional international visitors beyond Russia will be permitted in the near future.
