Wonsan Kalma resort presents a familiar vacation scene, reminiscent of popular European destinations like Spain, Turkey, Portugal, or Greece. The resort’s vibrant waterslides, beach activities, and cheerful atmosphere make it appear like any other tourist hotspot. However, these picturesque images hail from an unexpected source – North Korea. In the summer of 2025, North Korea unveiled this coastal tourism project on its eastern coast, endorsed by Kim Jong Un to transform the nation into a sought-after tourist hub. Despite the promotional efforts, British travelers are unlikely to visit soon due to the Foreign Office’s advisory against non-essential travel to North Korea.
Primarily catering to local tourists, the resort has only allowed a limited number of international guests, mainly from Russia, to experience its offerings. Visitors must adhere to strict regulations, including predefined itineraries and mandatory guides, restricting spontaneity. The proximity to military and missile testing sites further discourages independent exploration beyond the guarded zone.
Situated in Wonsan, a coastal city with a picturesque sandy beach, the resort was part of Kim Jong Un’s grand plan announced in 2018 to establish the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone featuring luxurious accommodations and facilities. Construction setbacks, including a typhoon in 2020, delayed the project, but the resort finally welcomed guests last summer. Photos from the opening ceremony depicted Kim Jong Un amidst an excited crowd enjoying a splendid fireworks display.
Anastasia Samsonova, a Russian visitor, shared her controlled experience at the resort with the BBC, highlighting the strict itinerary approvals and modest dress code enforced by North Korean authorities. Despite the limitations, she praised the serene atmosphere, meticulously maintained beach, and affordable local cuisine. The resort offered various souvenirs, including Olympic-themed apparel and patriotic toy rockets.
Limited information exists about the resort, with government-released glossy photos offering glimpses of its amenities, such as waterparks and beach activities. A Russian travel website promoting trips to the area described a comprehensive itinerary that combines beach relaxation in Wonsan with vibrant tours of Pyongyang, offering a mix of leisure and cultural exploration at a competitive price.
Human rights groups raised concerns during the resort’s construction phase, alleging issues of forced labor, poor working conditions, and lack of transparency. Critics questioned the treatment of workers and the secrecy surrounding the project’s development.