From Tuesday, a new and unexpected destination will appear on the world resort map: North Korea. Amid international isolation and limited foreign policy manoeuvring, the DPRK is taking a bold step by opening the Wonsan Kalma resort on the country’s east coast to foreign tourists.
The first foreign guests to pass through the gates of this fortress of “Korean-style tourism” will be Russians. Wonsan Kalma is not just a beach resort, but a showcase project built to demonstrate what “new tourism” could look like in one of the world’s most closed countries.
The resort area, stretching 4-5 kilometres along the coast, offers a well-developed infrastructure: a water park, cinema, bars, restaurants, spa centres and sports grounds. The beach is characterised by fine golden sand and calm seas and is considered safe, including for children.
According to the North Korean authorities, the resort is designed to accommodate up to 20,000 people.
According to the tour company, trips will begin on July 7. The programme is an eight-day tour with accommodation, excursions, transfer from Pyongyang and even the opportunity to visit the Masikryong ski resort.
The cost of the tour ranges from $1,300 to $1,840, depending on the level of accommodation. The price includes almost everything: airfare, accommodation, meals and excursions.
However, organisers and experts warn that a holiday in the DPRK is radically different from what one is accustomed to. The resort is subject to strict rules. Independent walks outside the hotel or beach area are strictly prohibited — movement is only possible when accompanied by an assigned North Korean guide. The use of drones and photography outside designated areas are strictly prohibited. Tourists should be prepared for a complete lack of internet access, limited mobile phone coverage and the inability to use international bank cards.
