Sudden Closure at Wonsan–Kalma Complex
North Korea’s state-run tourism authority announced that the newly opened Wonsan–Kalma beach resort on the east coast is now “temporarily not receiving foreign tourists.” The resort had launched for domestic visitors on July 1, and welcomed a small Russian delegation just days earlier, including Foreign.
From Grand Opening to Exit of Foreigners
Declaring Wonsan–Kalma “one of the greatest successes this year,” Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the opening, showcasing modern hotels, water parks, and extensive beach facilities intended to host up to 20,000 guests. After the Lavrov visit, a Russian journalist’s report noted that the resort visitors appeared to be state-mobilized rather than actual tourists—prompting concerns in Pyongyang over negative optics and leading to the abrupt ban.
Tourism: A Facade or Future Revenue?
Analysts believe the ban is likely temporary, driven by reputational risk. North Korea heavily relies on tourism—especially from Russia and China—to justify the resort’s steep construction costs and rebound economically .
Experts warn that prolonged restrictions could threaten the site’s viability:
If foreign tourists aren’t allowed … North Korea can’t break even and it has to shut down the resort.
Final Word
Wonsan–Kalma’s rapid rise and near-immediate shutdown for foreign visitors underscores the delicate balancing act in North Korea’s reopening strategy. The state’s sensitivity to international image may delay broader access, but economic forces—namely tourism revenue—will likely compel a return. The world will be watching which interests win in Pyongyang: image control or foreign tourists.
