North Korea’s New 20,000-Capacity Tourism Complex Opens to Local Visitors, Awaits Russian Tourists
North Korea’s newly constructed 20,000-capacity tourism complex on the Kalma Peninsula in Wonsan has opened its doors to local visitors, with the first group of Russian tourists set to arrive on July 7. The project is part of the country’s efforts to boost its tourism sector and attract foreign visitors.
Reported by Kokcha News Agency:
North Korea’s latest tourism venture, the Kalma Tourism Complex, has officially opened to local visitors. Located on the Kalma Peninsula in Wonsan, the sprawling complex features a 4-kilometer-long coastline and various types of pools, attracting visitors of all ages from across the country.
In a statement, the North Korean government highlighted the enthusiasm of the local population, saying, “On the first day of its opening, many guests visited this unparalleled tourist attraction, which the people have long desired to experience.”
Russian Tourists to Arrive Soon
Russian media has reported that North Korea is preparing to welcome foreign tourists, with the first group of Russian visitors expected to arrive on July 7. This marks a significant step in North Korea’s efforts to open up its tourism sector to international travelers.
However, South Korea’s Unification Ministry has cautioned that the number of foreign tourists visiting the complex may fall short of Pyongyang’s expectations due to limited transportation options. Currently, flights between Pyongyang and Vladivostok, Russia, have a daily capacity of around 170 passengers, which could restrict the number of foreign visitors to the region.
Kim Jong-un’s Vision for Tourism
The Kalma Tourism Complex was inaugurated with a ceremony attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who emphasized the importance of the tourism sector in driving economic growth.
“This newly constructed complex will contribute to making our country a world-class tourism and cultural center, and it will serve as a model for similar facilities to be built in other regions of the country,” Kim said during the opening event.
Russian Involvement
The presence of Russian Ambassador to North Korea Alexander Matsegora and other embassy officials as special guests at the opening ceremony has sparked speculation that North Korea may be looking to increase cultural exchanges and earn foreign currency by welcoming more Russian tourists in the future.
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