NORTH Korea has unveiled a vast new beach resort on its eastern coast, with leader Kim Jong Un describing it as one of the country's most significant achievements this year, Bernama-Yonhap news agency reported, citing state media outlet KCNA.
The Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area, situated along a 4-kilometre stretch of beach, was officially completed during a ceremony held on Wednesday, attended by Kim, his wife Ri Sol Ju and daughter Ju-ae. The appearance marked Ri’s first public engagement since January.
Designed to accommodate nearly 20,000 guests, both domestic and foreign, the resort includes hotels, hostels, sports and recreational facilities, swimming areas and public dining venues.
According to KCNA, the complex is intended to offer leisure throughout the year and serve as a model for future developments.
Kim praised the site as “one of the country's greatest successes this year” and said it should “lead the development of North Korea’s tourism sector”. He also noted that the upcoming Ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea is expected to approve plans for additional resorts across the country.
The event was also attended by the Russian ambassador and embassy staff, indicating that Russia may be a target market for the new facility.
The resort is due to open to local tourists on 1 July. - June 26, 2025
