Anastasia Samsonova was among the select few to visit North Korea's newly opened Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, often referred to as the country's own 'Benidorm'. This exclusive resort, inaugurated in July, draws on the youth experiences of leader Kim Jong Un and is situated near a missile testing site. While it was initially poised to welcome international guests, access has primarily been restricted to Russian tourists, exclusively arranged by accredited travel agencies.
During her trip, Anastasia traveled with a tightly monitored group, with guides and security personnel enforcing a strict itinerary. She mentioned the guards aiming to prevent any unpredictable interactions between tourists and locals, as North Korea has remained largely isolated for an extended period. Observers were surprised by the sight of foreign visitors, underscoring the rarity of such encounters.
Despite the numerous restrictions imposed on their movements, Anastasia shared that she appreciated the "almost empty" beaches, described as immaculate with white sand and pristine loungers. She emphasized the resort's upkeep, with daily cleaning, and found the sea entry gentle enough for easy access. Visitors were, however, instructed against wearing revealing attire and were prohibited from photographing construction sites.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea's borders had largely remained shut to international tourists. The regime has recently permitted limited access specifically for Russian tourists, and there have been aspirations to boost tourism directed by Kim Jong Un's vision. However, the resort’s construction and operations have been shadowed by accusations of labor exploitation, raising ethical concerns about the conditions under which it was built.
Anastasia shared details of her daily routine, which included traditional North Korean meals heavy on meat and various sauces, supplemented by affordable drinks at the resort. The ruins of a nearby missile test site were even marketed as a tourist attraction, despite controversial overtones. Some fellow travelers expressed dissatisfaction with the stark differences in expectations for a typical beach holiday.
Though certain information about future tourist visits remains uncertain, the travel agency behind the initial tours has indicated robust interest in further excursions, while access has been complicated even for citizens from neighboring China. Experts speculate North Korea deliberately limits tourism to prevent adverse public perceptions among its citizens.
With Russia seeing a modest rise in tourist numbers to North Korea, the newly established Wonsan Kalma is seen as pivotal for stimulating the country’s economy but draped in controversy. Despite these complexities, Anastasia expressed a desire to return, highlighting the potential existence of nearby ski resorts for future adventures in North Korea.
