Has North Korea Finished Its Kalma Beach Resort?
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Synopsis
North Korea's new Kalma beach resort is set to open next month, touted by Kim Jong-un as a major achievement. With capacity for 20,000 guests and extensive amenities, this project aims to reshape the nation’s tourism culture. As North Korea prepares for this launch, foreign tourists, particularly from Russia, are expected to flock to this newly developed area.
Key Takeaways
- The Kalma beach resort in North Korea is a significant tourism project.
- It can host nearly 20,000 guests and features various amenities.
- The resort is set to open on July 1 for domestic tourists.
- Kim Jong-un views this project as a major success for the country.
- Foreign tourists, particularly from Russia, are expected to visit.
Seoul, June 26 (NationPress) North Korea has finalized the construction of a grand beach resort located in the eastern coastal area of Kalma. Leader Kim Jong-un has praised this achievement as one of the most significant accomplishments of the year, according to state media reports on Thursday.
The completion ceremony for the new Kalma coastal tourist area was conducted with great fanfare on Tuesday, with Kim present, as reported by Yonhap, citing the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The KCNA mentioned that the new destination features hotels and hostels that can accommodate nearly 20,000 guests, both local and international. The resort offers facilities for swimming, sports, recreation, and various catering services.
The amenities are fully designed to provide a cultural experience and showcase the scenic beauty of the area throughout the year, featuring an appealing 4-km-long beach, according to the news outlet.
During the ceremony, Kim cut the ribbon and toured the resort, including an outdoor pool and hotels, remarking that the country’s long-term efforts have culminated in a remarkable reality.
The KCNA reported that Kim expressed profound emotion regarding the project, labeling it one of the most remarkable achievements of the year.
"The Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area must play a pivotal role in nurturing North Korea's tourist culture," KCNA quoted Kim as stating, while instructing those responsible for the resort to ensure optimal convenience and leisure for visitors.
Kim referred to the Kalma resort as an initial step towards the development of cultural tourism in the nation, indicating that the forthcoming Ninth Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea will unveil a comprehensive strategy to develop additional large-scale tourist areas in various regions "as swiftly as possible," drawing from insights gained from the Kalma initiative.
Accompanying Kim were his daughter, known as Ju-ae, and his wife, Ri Sol-ju, marking Ri's first public appearance since she last featured in media coverage during a New Year’s Day arts performance on January 1, 2024.
Attendees at the ceremony included the Russian ambassador to North Korea and other embassy members, signaling that Russians are expected to be among the foreign tourists.
The KCNA announced that the Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area will commence operations for tourists domestically starting July 1.
Point of View
It's crucial to present an unbiased perspective on North Korea's developments. The completion of the Kalma beach resort indicates a significant investment in tourism, aiming to attract foreign visitors. While the project showcases North Korea's ambitions, it also reflects the complexities of its international relations. The focus on tourism could lead to economic benefits, yet the geopolitical climate remains a key factor in its success.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Kalma beach resort?
The Kalma beach resort can accommodate nearly 20,000 guests, both domestic and international.
When will the resort officially open to tourists?
The Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area is scheduled to open for domestic tourists on July 1.
Who attended the completion ceremony?
The completion ceremony was attended by leader Kim Jong-un, his family, and the Russian ambassador to North Korea.
What facilities does the resort offer?
The resort includes amenities for swimming, sports, recreation, and various catering services.
How does this project fit into North Korea's tourism strategy?
This resort is viewed as a first step in developing cultural tourism in North Korea, with plans for expanding tourist areas in the future.
