North Korea welcomes Russian tourists to new seaside resort

Anastasiya Samsonova shared her experience at North Korea's new resort, catering exclusively to Russian tourists.

North Korea opens seaside resort to Russian tourists

Anastasiya Samsonova recently returned from a week-long holiday at North Korea's newly opened Wonsan-Kalma seaside resort, which welcomes only Russian tourists. Despite the country's reputation, her impressions were positive, as she described her stay as safe and enjoyable. The resort features beautiful infrastructure and luxurious amenities, but was notably devoid of visitors. Travelers expressed curiosity about North Korea's culture and lifestyle amid growing ties between Russia and North Korea following the invasion of Ukraine. North Korean products are starting to appear in Russia, and trips to the hermit nation have seen increased interest, especially among younger Russians. However, the cost of traveling there, approximately £1,500 for a week excluding flights, may limit future tourism.

The new seaside resort in North Korea signifies an unusual pivot towards foreign tourism at a time when international relations are strained. This welcoming of Russian tourists underscores a deeper political alliance amid ongoing global tensions. As economic cooperation and direct flights between Moscow and Pyongyang resume, this initiative may point towards North Korea’s desire for a more prominent role on the global stage. The resort's appeal seems rooted in a mix of curiosity and nostalgia for the Soviet era, raising questions about the future of this unique travel destination. As North Korea invites more tourists, the potential for international backlash looms, especially concerning human rights.

Highlights

North Korea's push for tourism could reshape perceptions but also presents potential risks.