North Korea, a country long considered one of the most closed countries in the world, is planning a major move into the tourism industry. Under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, a new tourist center is set to open on the country's east coast, on the Sea of Japan, by May 2025. The project, known as Wonsan-Kalma, is intended to open the gateway for international tourists to this mysterious country and offer a glimpse into life behind the borders.
Wonsan-Kalma is to become a comprehensive tourist center offering a wide range of attractions and amenities. An amusement park is planned that promises exciting experiences for families and adventure seekers alike. A leisure activity area will offer sports and recreation opportunities, while a new airfield will ensure convenient arrival for tourists. Sufficient parking is also planned to cope with the expected "rush" of visitors.
The hotel facilities in Wonsan-Kalma are designed to offer high levels of luxury and all the modern amenities that today's travelers expect. From first-class restaurants to wellness facilities and entertainment options, guests will want for nothing. The goal is to create a vacation experience that meets international standards and positions North Korea as an attractive travel destination.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea was experiencing a steady increase in tourist numbers. Chinese tourists in particular showed great interest in the unique insights that a trip to North Korea can offer. The country's historical and cultural diversity, combined with the opportunity to explore one of the least visited countries in the world, attracted more and more travelers.
However, with the onset of the pandemic, North Korea imposed a complete ban on tourists entering the country to prevent the spread of the virus. These measures hit the burgeoning tourism industry hard, bringing it to an abrupt halt. Now that the pandemic is largely under control, the regime is planning a revival of tourism and hopes to make up for lost years.
The opening of Wonsan-Kalma is part of a larger strategy to make North Korea a major player in the international tourism market. North Korea is becoming increasingly popular as a travel destination, especially among Chinese and Russian tourists.
However, it remains to be seen how the international public will react to the new tourist hub. The political tensions and human rights issues surrounding the country may be a deterrent for some travelers. At the same time, the fascination with the unknown and the interest in traveling to one of the most mysterious countries in the world may attract many.