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Key Points

North Korea has completed its massive Kalma coastal resort, with Kim Jong-un personally inaugurating the project alongside his family. The facility, set to open July 1, includes hotels, pools, and recreational spaces for up to 20,000 visitors. Kim hailed it as a major achievement, hinting at future tourism expansions. The presence of Russia’s ambassador suggests the resort may cater to foreign tourists.

Key Points: Kim Jong-un Opens Kalma Beach Resort With Family and Russian Envoy

  • Kim Jong-un attended the grand opening with wife Ri Sol-ju and daughter Ju-ae
  • Resort can host 20,000 guests with pools, hotels, and sports facilities
  • Russian ambassador invited, signaling potential foreign tourism
  • Part of broader plan to expand North Korean tourist zones
2 min read

North Korea completes Kalma beach resort; set for opening next month

North Korea unveils massive Kalma coastal resort, with Kim Jong-un calling it a key tourism milestone ahead of July 1 opening.

"The Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area should play a leading role in establishing the tourist culture of North Korea – Kim Jong-un via KCNA"

Seoul, June 26

North Korea has completed the construction of a large-scale beach resort in the eastern coastal region of Kalma, with leader Kim Jong-un touting it as one of the country's greatest feats this year, state media reported on Thursday.

The completion ceremony for the new Kalma coastal tourist area was held "with splendour" on Tuesday, with Kim in attendance, reports Yonhap, quoting Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The KCNA described the new site as housing hotels and hostels capable of accommodating nearly 20,000 guests, both domestic and foreign. The resort is equipped with facilities for sea swimming, sports and recreation, as well as commercial and public catering services.

The facilities are "fully equipped with all conditions and cultural life bases for providing the beauty of the scenic spot ... in all seasons, excitingly picturing a 4-km-long stretch of beach," the news outlet said.

Kim cut the ribbon during the ceremony and toured the resort area, including an outdoor pool and hotels, noting that what the country has thrown energy into for a long time has become a "brilliant reality."

The KCNA said Kim also expressed his deep emotion over the project, calling it one of the greatest successes this year.

"The Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area should play a leading role in establishing the tourist culture of" North Korea, the KCNA quoted Kim as saying, while ordering those in charge of the resort's operation to provide the best convenience and leisure space to tourists.

Kim described the Kalma resort as the first step in the development of cultural tourism in the country, saying the upcoming Ninth Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea will confirm a major plan to develop additional large-scale tourist areas in other regions "in the shortest time possible," based on lessons learned from the Kalma project.

Kim was seen accompanied by his daughter, known as Ju-ae, and his wife, Ri Sol-ju, marking the first time Ri has appeared at a public event since her last media appearance at a New Year's Day arts performance on Jan. 1, 2024.

Invited to the ceremony were the Russian ambassador to North Korea and members of the embassy, a sign that Russians will be among the foreign tourists expected to be brought in.

The KCNA said the Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area will start service for tourists at home July 1.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Interesting to see North Korea focusing on tourism when their people struggle with basic needs. Hope this brings some economic benefits to ordinary citizens rather than just being a showpiece for the elite. The beach does look beautiful in pictures though!
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Priya M.
As an Indian who loves beach destinations, I wonder if they'll ever open up for international tourists beyond Russians. The infrastructure looks impressive, but I'd be concerned about restrictions on movement and surveillance. Goa beaches are much more free and welcoming! 😊
A
Arjun S.
The timing is interesting - building luxury resorts while the world is focused on their nuclear program. This feels like a distraction tactic. India should be cautious about any North Korean tourism overtures given their close ties with China.
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Sunita R.
The resort looks world-class in the photos, but I wonder how much of it is just for show. North Korea's tourism industry is so controlled - nothing like our Indian hospitality where guests are treated like family. Still, it's good to see some development in that region.
V
Vikram J.
While the resort is impressive, we must remember this is the same regime that spends billions on luxury projects while their people suffer. India should focus on strengthening ties with responsible nations in our neighborhood rather than being tempted by such showcase projects.
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Neha P.
The beach looks pristine and untouched! 🌊 But I'd be worried about the environmental impact of such massive development. In India, we've seen how unchecked coastal tourism can damage ecosystems. Hope they've considered sustainable practices.

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