What You Need to Know About North Korea's Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area

North Korea has unveiled the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area, a massive new beach resort on the country’s east coast. Marketed as a "world-class cultural resort", it marks a bold effort by the regime to grow its tourism industry and bring in foreign currency amid ongoing international sanctions.

The resort opened to domestic tourists on July 1, 2025, attracting visitors from across the country, including Pyongyang and North Hamgyong Province. State media shared rare images of locals relaxing by the sea, which is a striking contrast to the country's usual portrayal.

Pyongyang, North Korea | mbrand85 via Canva Pro

The project is a key initiative of Kim Jong Un, who hailed it as one of the country’s “greatest successes” of the year. He recently visited the site with his daughter Ju Ae and wife Ri Sol Ju.

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What to expect at Wonsan Kalma

Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area | NK News Official Website

Spanning over 400 buildings, the Wonsan Kalma resort features hotels, hostels, dining venues, and recreational spaces. It’s designed to host up to 20,000 guests, offering activities such as swimming, sports, and other seaside recreation.

Although construction began in 2014, the project was delayed by sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic. With borders reopened in 2023, the resort is now welcoming local visitors, and plans are in place to host international tourists soon.

A group of Russian tourists is expected on July 7, 2025, making them the first foreign guests. Tour operators say that while Western tourists used to visit pre-pandemic, Chinese tourists have yet to return.

Could North Korea be the next beach destination?

Image credit: Korea Times Official Website

Access to the resort is still restricted. With limited international flights, mainly from Vladivostok to Pyongyang, only around 170 foreign tourists per day are expected, according to South Korea’s unification ministry.

Still, the North appears committed to expanding its tourist zones, and some speculate Russian support may have helped complete the resort in exchange for geopolitical cooperation.

For Filipino travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, Wonsan Kalma offers a rare window into the secretive state. However, strict controls and limited access mean only a few will get to experience it for now.

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A new chapter for North Korea tourism?

North Korea’s new beach resort may be more than just a luxury development. It could signal a shift in how the country engages with the world. Whether it draws more international travellers, including those from the Philippines, remains to be seen.

For now, Wonsan Kalma is an ambitious attempt to showcase a different side of the hermit kingdom, one of beaches, leisure, and controlled curiosity.