North Korea has officially opened its Wonsan Kalma resort, a beach destination touted by leader Kim Jong Un as a top-tier tourist spot, now hosting its first wave of Russian tourists. The resort has attracted attention not just for its ambitious plans but for the alleged harsh conditions under which it was built, leading to accusations from human rights groups.
Originally launched in a grand ceremony last month, the resort aims to pull in around a million visitors year-round. Kim Jong Un, who spent much of his youth in Wonsan, envisions this site as a key step in opening North Korea to the outside world. Historical ties to Spain's Benidorm are no accident; prior to its conception, North Korean officials toured the famous tourist area to gather ideas.
Construction of the resort began in 2017, revealing rapid development as seen through satellite imagery. By late 2018, researchers noted that around 80% of the complex had been completed. Following a meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin in mid-2024, the push to attract tourists materialized, particularly from Russia.
Amidst this rush, concerns regarding labor practices emerged. The UN has reported that many construction workers were placed in "shock brigades," forced to work exhausting hours under dire conditions. Defectors and insiders describe a brutal work environment where low pay and high risks are the norm. Some locals also reported losing homes to make way for the resort's expansion without compensation, leading to broader discussions around workers’ rights and living conditions.
Despite these serious issues, Russian tour agencies have started offering trips to this North Korean destination, promising an exotic experience at a significant cost. However, experts express skepticism about the long-term appeal of the resort given better, safer holiday alternatives available elsewhere.
As the Wonsan Kalma resort begins its journey, it weaves a complex narrative of tourism, economic aspirations, and the pressing human rights challenges that linger just beneath the surface.
Originally launched in a grand ceremony last month, the resort aims to pull in around a million visitors year-round. Kim Jong Un, who spent much of his youth in Wonsan, envisions this site as a key step in opening North Korea to the outside world. Historical ties to Spain's Benidorm are no accident; prior to its conception, North Korean officials toured the famous tourist area to gather ideas.
Construction of the resort began in 2017, revealing rapid development as seen through satellite imagery. By late 2018, researchers noted that around 80% of the complex had been completed. Following a meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin in mid-2024, the push to attract tourists materialized, particularly from Russia.
Amidst this rush, concerns regarding labor practices emerged. The UN has reported that many construction workers were placed in "shock brigades," forced to work exhausting hours under dire conditions. Defectors and insiders describe a brutal work environment where low pay and high risks are the norm. Some locals also reported losing homes to make way for the resort's expansion without compensation, leading to broader discussions around workers’ rights and living conditions.
Despite these serious issues, Russian tour agencies have started offering trips to this North Korean destination, promising an exotic experience at a significant cost. However, experts express skepticism about the long-term appeal of the resort given better, safer holiday alternatives available elsewhere.
As the Wonsan Kalma resort begins its journey, it weaves a complex narrative of tourism, economic aspirations, and the pressing human rights challenges that linger just beneath the surface.
