North Korea is resuming construction on a coastal tourist zone that aims to attract foreign visitors with its beaches, skyscrapers and hotels. The project, called Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, is located near Wonson, a port city on North Korea's eastern coast¹[1]. The project was originally slated for completion by mid-2018, but was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to a UK-based newspaper, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has big plans for the site, which he hopes to make a tourist destination like Benidorm in Spain. Benidorm is a popular seaside resort that boasts of sunny weather, sandy beaches and nightlife. Kim Jong Un believes that the site could appeal to foreign travelers, especially those from European countries.
However, traveling to North Korea is not easy, as many countries have imposed travel bans or advisories on the isolated nation. The US Department of State website warns US citizens of the "continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention" in North Korea. The UK's foreign office also advises its citizens to exercise caution and notes that the British Embassy in Pyongyang is temporarily closed due to Covid-19 border restrictions.
The Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone project is part of North Korea's efforts to boost its economy and image through tourism. The country has also hosted several international events, such as the Mass Games, the Pyongyang Marathon and the Arirang Festival, to showcase its culture and achievements. However, critics have raised concerns over the human rights situation and the nuclear weapons program of the regime.
