North Korea has long been known for its political isolation and tightly controlled society. Yet, in an effort to project an image of economic ambition, the country has recently unveiled the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area, a sprawling luxury beach resort on its eastern seacoast. Despite its grandeur, this development underscores the paradox of North Korea’s tourism ambitions: a nation striving for economic growth while maintaining strict controls and deep international isolation.
The Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area: A Decade in the Making
On July 6, 2025, North Korean state media proudly announced the opening of the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area. Stretching across a 2.5-mile beach in the city of Wonsan, this resort is one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the regime in recent years. Featuring 400 buildings, including high-rise hotels, villas, and various amenities such as a water park, gym, and department store, the resort can accommodate up to 20,000 guests. According to LAist, the project began in 2016 but faced multiple delays due to international sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed hopes that the resort will become a “world destination,” reflecting his broader strategy to use tourism as a means to revitalize the country’s sanctions-hit economy. However, the resort’s opening comes with significant limitations, as it remains unclear whether it will be accessible to foreign tourists beyond a select few, such as Russian visitors.
Tourism Amid Isolation: The Role of Foreign Visitors
North Korea’s tourism sector has historically been tightly regulated, with foreign visitors required to follow government-approved itineraries under strict supervision. According to Travel and Tour World, a North Korean travel agency recently announced the recruitment of tourists for 2025, marking a rare opportunity for outsiders to visit the secretive nation. However, these tours are highly curated, offering limited interaction with local residents and a controlled glimpse into North Korean life.
Russians have been the primary exception to North Korea’s otherwise restrictive tourism policies. In 2024, the two countries signed a mutual defense treaty, leading to increased exchanges. Last week, Russian Ambassador Aleksandr Matsegora attended the resort’s opening ceremony, and the first group of Russian tourists is set to visit the Kalma resort this month. Despite this, fewer than 900 Russians traveled to North Korea for leisure in 2024, a stark contrast to the hundreds of thousands of Chinese tourists who visited annually before the pandemic.
Economic Aspirations vs. Geopolitical Challenges
Kim Jong Un has consistently emphasized tourism as a potential driver of economic growth, particularly in remote regions like Wonsan. However, analysts remain skeptical about whether the Kalma project can achieve its intended goals. Researcher Lee Sangkeun from the Seoul-based Institute for National Security Strategy told LAist that poor infrastructure, geopolitical instability, and strict controls on foreign visitors limit the sector’s potential.
Tourism is one of the few legitimate sources of foreign currency for North Korea, yet the country’s continued missile tests and international sanctions dampen its appeal as a travel destination. In May 2025, Wonsan was the site of missile tests, further complicating efforts to market the city as a peaceful tourist hub. Moreover, North Korea’s deepening isolation—exacerbated by its reluctance to fully reopen borders post-COVID—has hindered its tourism ambitions.
The Allure and Controversy of Visiting North Korea
For adventurous travelers, North Korea offers a unique, albeit tightly controlled, experience. From the monumental Kim Il-sung Square in Pyongyang to the historic Mount Paektu, the country provides a rare glimpse into a society largely untouched by Western influence. According to Travel and Tour World, these tours appeal to those curious about North Korea’s distinct culture, architecture, and history.
However, visitors must navigate strict regulations, including constant supervision and restricted itineraries. While some see these controls as part of the allure, others question the ethical implications of supporting a regime known for human rights abuses. Moreover, the long-term sustainability of North Korean tourism remains uncertain, as political tensions and economic hardships persist.
As North Korea opens its doors—albeit cautiously—to a select group of tourists, the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area symbolizes both the possibilities and limitations of the country’s tourism ambitions. Whether this project succeeds in boosting the economy or remains a monument to unfulfilled aspirations, it offers a fascinating window into the complexities of life in one of the world’s most secretive nations.