Overview

• The Wonsan Kalma resort was inaugurated by Kim Jong Un in late June with billions invested to diversify the economy and generate hard currency.
• Foreign tour operations were halted in mid-July after only a dozen Russian bookings and growing concerns over transport links and regime unpredictability.
• Domestic visitors retain access to the coastal facilities while planned arrivals from China and other countries remain suspended.
• A one-week package to Wonsan costs about US$1,800, roughly 60 percent above the average Russian monthly wage, deterring the intended clientele.
• UN and NGO reports describe workers enduring 24-hour shifts with inadequate food and rest during construction, underscoring labor exploitation under sanctions.