The Wonsan Kalma resort, recently inaugurated by Kim Jong Un, has attracted its first group of Russian tourists, raising questions about the treatment of workers during its construction.
**North Korea's Wonsan Kalma Resort Welcomes Russian Tourists Amidst Controversy**
**North Korea's Wonsan Kalma Resort Welcomes Russian Tourists Amidst Controversy**
A new beach destination in North Korea opens to tourists but is clouded by concerns over human rights violations.
A newly opened beach resort in North Korea, the Wonsan Kalma, has begun welcoming its first group of Russian tourists this week, although the development of the site has been criticized for alleged human rights violations against construction workers. Kim Jong Un officially opened the resort last month, touting it as a significant endeavor for the North Korean tourism industry aimed at revitalizing the nation’s economy.
Satellite imagery and investigative insights have raised alarms regarding the harsh conditions under which the resort was constructed. Reports indicate a potential use of "shock brigades," a term denoting forced labor with demanding conditions and long hours, particularly during the speedy construction that took place from early 2018 to 2019. The rapid development has drawn scrutiny over the ethical implications of such labor practices in a country known for its restrictive environment.
The resort's grand vision was to attract a significant influx of tourists, specifically targeting one million visitors, primarily from China and Russia. While early plans aimed high, most Chinese tour agencies have not advertised trips to Wonsan Kalma, hinting at limited appeal. Meanwhile, Russian agencies have begun offering tours, though experts remain skeptical about the attractiveness of North Korea as a travel destination compared to more popular vacation spots like Turkey or Thailand.
Reports collected from individuals who have defected from North Korea cite severe living and working conditions endured by workers at the site. Accounts of inadequate food, extreme physical demands, and repercussions for failing to meet aggressive deadlines underline the urgency for awareness and action regarding human rights in the region.
Despite the grand ambitions surrounding Wonsan Kalma, experts warn that the resort is unlikely to attract significant tourism. The perception of North Korea still significantly deters potential travelers, compounded by the challenging living conditions and impending political scrutiny. Overall, while Wonsan Kalma stands as a beacon of North Korean tourism initiatives, underlying concerns about worker rights and tourism sustainability remain.
