Kim Jong Un Pushes Forward with Wonsan-Kalma Tourism Project Amid Setbacks

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited the Wonsan-Kalma tourism site under construction on the eastern coast, aiming for a May 2025 opening. Despite sanctions and COVID-19 restrictions delaying progress, the project is in its final stages. The site could boost the economy by attracting international visitors.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a major tourism site being constructed on the country's eastern coast, discussing steps to open the zone by next year, state media reported Thursday, though the country still blocks visits by most foreign tourists.

The Wonsan-Kalma zone is one of Kim's most talked-about tourism projects. For years, North Korea has been building luxury hotels and recreational facilities there to create a key attraction for international visitors. However, the project has reportedly suffered setbacks due to shortages of construction materials as a result of toughened UN sanctions and COVID-19 restrictions.

Kim toured the Wonsan-Kalma zone with top deputies on Tuesday and discussed preparations for its opening by May 2025 as decided by a ruling party meeting in January, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.

"A coastal wonderland to be known to the world as the best tourist resort of (North Korea) would be successfully built," Kim was quoted as saying by KCNA. It cited Kim as saying construction has entered its final stages.

(With inputs from agencies.)