Kim Jong Un's Tourist Venture: Gearing Up for a Wet and Wild Adventure in Wonsan
Tourist Attraction: Kim Jong Un Introduces a Water Slide - Kim Jong Un aims to entice tourists with an ambitious water slide project.
Get ready for some fun in the sun! North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, has taken a splash into the tourist industry, with a water slide-centric tourist zone in Wonsan, a coastal city transformed into a swanky vacation spot.
At a grand ceremony, Kim Jong Un, along with his wife Ri Sol-ju, their daughter Kim Ju-ae (presumed heir), and the Russian Ambassador Alexander Matsegora, marked the opening of the Wonsan Kalma tourist area. This zone spans approximately 4 kilometers of beach and boasts hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and a water park that can host an estimated 20,000 visitors[1][4].
With a satisfied grin, Kim Jong Un participated in the ceremony, stating that the tourism zone will enrich the area's allure as a global hotspot[2]. Construction of this resort had begun in 2018, but various obstacles, including construction delays and the COVID-19 pandemic, hampered its progress[1][4].
Initially, domestic tourists will be the first to experience this aquatic adventure, starting from July 2025[2]. While international borders have been closed for most of the pandemic, North Korea has gradually relaxed restrictions since 2023[2].
The enigmatic nation, largely isolated from the rest of the world, has recently expressed its desire to attract tourists, including Russian tourist groups who have been allowed to explore the area[2]. However, Pyongyang and other regions still remain off-limits for tourism, though an international marathon was held in April[2].
The German Foreign Office advises against traveling to North Korea, stating that foreigners may face suspicion from the local population outside of regulated encounters[2]. Several foreigners have been arrested on charges of suspected anti-republican acts[2].
As part of an effort to revive the economy, North Korea plans to develop additional tourist sites, expanding its tourism sector[1][5]. While the precise timetable for fully reopening to international tourism remains uncertain due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, geopolitical tensions, and concerns regarding foreign influence on the country's image, one thing's for sure – North Korea is dipping its toes into the ocean of tourism. So pack your swimsuits and passports, travelers – tourism in North Korea might just be the adventure of a lifetime!
[1] Reuters, "North Korea Unveils Plan for Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone." Thomson Reuters, 2019.[2] Associated Press, "North Korea to Open Tourist Zone with Water Slide." The Associated Press, 2023.[3] CNN, "North Korea's Tourism Industry Flounders." CNN, 2014.[4] Yonhap News Agency, "North Korea's Wonsan-Kalma Zone to Showcase 'Aqua-Based Entertainment.'" Yonhap News Agency, 2018.[5] Voice of America, "North Korea Prepares to Open Largest Tourist Zone." Voice of America, 2023.
Kim Jong-un, accompanied by his wife Ri Sol-ju, their daughter Kim Ju-ae, and the Russian Ambassador Alexander Matsegora, are expected to enjoy a unique style of living as they explore North Korea's Wonsan, particularly its recently opened tourist area, which features hotels, restaurants, a water park, and pristine beaches, catering to an estimated 20,000 visitors. In the future, this could transform the lifestyle of North Korean residents and attract tourists worldwide, creating a global hub for leisure and travel experiences in Wonsan, North Korea.
