North Korea has officially opened the Wonsan–Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, a beach resort reportedly capable of hosting up to 20,000 guests. Located on the country’s eastern coast, the resort features waterparks, high-rise hotels, and various accommodation types.
The opening ceremony took place on 25 June and was attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, his family members, and the Russian ambassador. State media announced that the resort will begin welcoming domestic travellers from 1 July, though details on eligibility and access remain unclear.
The Kalma beach development is situated next to an international airport and is now served by a newly opened train station, suggesting future plans to cater to foreign visitors.
The project was first announced in 2013 but faced multiple delays due to sanctions, material shortages, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Construction resumed in 2024, with reports suggesting potential Russian support played a role in its completion.
According to South Korea’s Unification Ministry, North Korea is expected to gradually expand operations to include Russian tourists. A Vladivostok-based agency has launched three tour packages to Kalma between July and August, priced at approximately US$1,840. The tours include flights to Wonsan, stays at the beach resort, and a visit to Masikryong Ski Resort.
However, infrastructure limitations may restrict access, with current flight capacity from Pyongyang to Vladivostok allowing for an estimated 170 travellers per day. Chinese group tours remain suspended since early 2020.
While North Korea views tourism as a non-sanctioned source of foreign currency, certain joint ventures or bulk cash transactions would still fall under UN restrictions. The country has yet to announce whether other international tourists will be permitted to visit the resort.