A coastal resort in North Korea, the Wonsan Kalma project, resembles typical vacation spots popular with British tourists. Amid the images of carefree visitors enjoying waterslides and beaches, the resort stands out as an ambitious endeavor launched by North Korea in 2025. Despite efforts by Kim Jong Un to elevate the country as a tourist hub, British travelers are advised against visiting due to current travel restrictions.
Primarily catering to local tourists with limited international visitors, the resort enforces strict control over bookings, requiring planned itineraries and official guides for all guests. Situated in Wonsan, a city known for its sandy beaches, the resort was part of Kim Jong Un’s vision to establish a luxurious coastal tourist zone. Hindered by a typhoon in 2020, the project finally opened last summer, accommodating up to 20,000 tourists.
Anastasia Samsonova, a Russian guest, shared her experience at the resort, highlighting the controlled nature of the trip with stringent itinerary adherence. Despite restrictions on photography and attire, she appreciated the serene environment and well-maintained beach. The resort offered a variety of food options, including affordable prices for meals and souvenirs reflecting North Korean culture.
Although details about the resort remain limited, promotional materials showcase attractions like waterparks and beach activities. A Russian travel website now offers packages to the area, combining beach relaxation in Wonsan with cultural exploration in Pyongyang. However, concerns raised by human rights groups during the resort’s construction phase underscore issues of forced labor and secrecy surrounding the project.
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