The Kalma Beach resort, one of North Korea’s most ambitious tourism projects under Kim Jong-un, officially opened this week. Despite the leader’s hopes for a significant influx of foreign visitors, the government has imposed stringent restrictions, barring non-citizens from accessing the site. The Wons,an Kalma tourist area was highlighted as a key initiative aimed at boosting the country’s economy through international tourism.
North Korea has long faced challenges in developing its tourism sector due to political isolation and economic sanctions. The Kalma resort represents a significant investment in the country’s infrastructure, with facilities including modern hotels, entertainment venues, and recreational areas. However, the exclusion of foreign tourists raises questions about the project’s viability in generating the intended economic benefits. Analysts suggest that the decision may reflect a strategic shift toward prioritizing domestic development over international tourism, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Kim Jong-un’s government has occasionally opened the country to limited tourism, allowing a small number of foreign visitors for diplomatic or cultural purposes. The Kalma resort project was initially promoted as a way to attract more foreign investment and generate much-needed foreign currency. However, the new restrictions indicate a more cautious approach, possibly influenced by regional security concerns and economic challenges. The government’s stance may also be a response to the broader geopolitical climate, where North Korea’s interactions with other nations remain highly constrained.