The Wonsan Kalma resort presents a familiar sight of carefree holidaymakers enjoying colorful waterslides and sandy beaches, reminiscent of popular vacation spots across Europe. However, these scenes are not from a typical tourist destination but rather from the secluded nation of North Korea, where a state-led coastal tourism initiative was launched in summer 2025. Despite efforts by Kim Jong Un to attract tourists and transform the country into a travel hotspot, British travelers are advised against visiting North Korea due to safety concerns.
The resort primarily caters to domestic guests, with only a limited number of international visitors, mainly from Russia, permitted to experience its amenities. Visitors are subject to strict regulations, including pre-planned schedules and mandatory guides, restricting the freedom of exploration. The proximity of the resort to military and missile testing areas further deters independent excursions beyond the guarded zone.
Located in Wonsan, a city renowned for its extensive shoreline, the resort was part of Kim Jong Un’s vision to establish the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone featuring luxurious accommodations and facilities comparable to top global resorts. Construction setbacks, including a typhoon in 2020, delayed the project, with the resort officially opening last year, capable of hosting up to 20,000 visitors. Images from the inauguration event depict Kim Jong Un amidst a festive atmosphere with a grand fireworks display.
Russian tourist Anastasia Samsonova recounted her visit to the resort, highlighting the tightly controlled nature of the trip with strict adherence to approved itineraries and modest dress codes. Despite the restrictions, she praised the serene ambiance of the resort, where the beach was meticulously maintained for guests’ enjoyment. Meals offered at the resort included a variety of meat dishes, affordable prices, and souvenir options reflecting North Korean culture.
Detailed information about the resort remains limited, with official images showcasing the waterpark, pool activities, and local beachgoers engaging in recreational activities. A Russian travel agency promoting trips to the region from June to September emphasizes a blend of seaside relaxation in Wonsan and vibrant city experiences in Pyongyang, catering to Russian-speaking travelers with inclusive packages at competitive prices.
The resort faced criticism during its development for alleged human rights violations, such as forced labor, inadequate compensation, and lack of transparency in construction practices, raising concerns among advocacy groups. Despite the allure of the Wonsan Kalma resort, ethical considerations regarding labor practices and human rights violations continue to cast a shadow over its appeal to potential visitors.
