A Glimpse of the Future: Foreign Tourists and Global Appeal
While North Korea remains one of the most isolated countries in the world, it has not entirely shut its doors to foreign tourists. Before the COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s complete border closures, a small number of guided tours were allowed, primarily organized through Chinese travel agencies. These tours were strictly supervised, offering sanitized glimpses of the country through the eyes of government-approved guides.
The Wonsan Kalma Beach Resort could be positioned as a flagship attraction for this niche market—should the borders reopen. By advertising images of beachside luxury, smiling guests, and modern architecture, North Korea could attempt to soften its global image, at least superficially. There are precedents: the Masikryong Ski Resort, completed in 2013, was heavily promoted in foreign media as a symbol of a “new” North Korea, even though access was extremely limited.
However, attracting a significant number of foreign tourists remains unlikely under current geopolitical conditions. International sanctions, human rights concerns, and strict restrictions on foreign movement within the country all serve as barriers. Moreover, many potential visitors are wary of being used in propaganda or inadvertently supporting a regime known for severe repression.