Could South Korea's Inter-Korean Tour Program Resume with North Korea's Kalma Beach?
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Synopsis
South Korea's Unification Minister Chung Dong-young has expressed excitement about the possibility of reviving inter-Korean tours to Mount Kumgang, with plans to include the newly developed Kalma beach resort. This initiative could pave the way for renewed tourism and diplomatic engagement between the two Koreas.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea's Unification Minister hopes to revive inter-Korean tours.
- Plans to expand tours to North Korea's Kalma beach resort.
- The original tour program was suspended after a tragic incident in 2008.
- Hyundai Asan is ready to launch tours but requires South Korean tourists.
- Wonsan is seen as a viable destination for South Korean cruise ship tourists.
Seoul, Sep 22 (NationPress) South Korea's Unification Minister Chung Dong-young expressed optimism on Monday about the potential resumption of an inter-Korean tour initiative to North Korea's Mount Kumgang, with plans to expand this to the newly established Kalma beach resort.
These comments were made during a discussion with Hyun Jeong-eun, chairperson of Hyundai Group, the parent company of Hyundai Asan, which previously managed the now-discontinued tours to the North's Mount Kumgang resort.
The once-popular tour program was abruptly halted in July 2008 when a South Korean tourist was tragically shot by North Korean soldiers for entering what Pyongyang deemed an off-limits military zone, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
"I hope the day will soon come when the tour to the Mount Kumgang tourist zone can be linked ... to North Korea's Wonsan-Kalma beach area so that it can be operated properly," the minister stated.
Chung referenced US President Donald Trump's earlier comments about North Korea's "great beaches" making the Kalma resort area "famous," adding that a summit between President Trump and Chairman Kim Jong-un would be critically important.
The Hyundai chairwoman shared this hope, stating, "Hyundai wishes tours could resume by linking Mount Kumgang with Wonsan, especially now that North Korea has heavily developed the area."
After years of development, North Korea unveiled the Kalma beach resort in the eastern coastal city of Wonsan in early July, aiming to draw foreign tourists, even though South Koreans remain prohibited from visiting.
During the meeting, Hyundai Asan's CEO Lee Paik-hoon indicated that the company is prepared to commence tours to the North Korean beach "anytime," noting that the project would not be viable without South Korean tourists.
"Wonsan is a destination that South Korean tourists should visit by cruise ships," he mentioned, adding that the company has already secured passenger vessels.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this situation with cautious optimism. While the potential resumption of inter-Korean tours signifies a step toward improved relations and economic collaboration, it remains crucial to consider the broader political context and the ongoing challenges faced by both nations.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the inter-Korean tour program?
The inter-Korean tour program has been suspended since July 2008 due to safety concerns, but recent discussions suggest a potential revival.
What is the Kalma beach resort?
The Kalma beach resort is a newly developed tourist destination in North Korea's Wonsan area, aimed at attracting foreign visitors.
Who is responsible for the previous tours to Mount Kumgang?
The tours to Mount Kumgang were previously operated by Hyundai Asan, a subsidiary of Hyundai Group.
Why was the tour program halted?
The program was halted after a South Korean tourist was shot in 2008 for entering a restricted military area.
What are the hopes for future tours?
Officials hope to link tours to Mount Kumgang with the Kalma beach resort to create a more comprehensive tourism experience.
