July 31, 2025, 5:02 am | Read time: 3 minutes
While traditional tourism remains banned in North Korea, there are signs of initial openings. In April, foreign runners participated in the Pyongyang Marathon, and now, for the first time, foreign tourists have been welcomed at a newly built resort. However, as initial reports from tourists show, there is a lingering aftertaste.
Long sandy beaches, empty loungers, and an unobstructed view of the sea–what sounds like an idyllic vacation paradise without mass tourism is set to become a reality for Russian tourists in North Korea. However, according to a report by BILD, the new vacation hotspot remains an exclusive and quirky destination for now. Despite a direct flight connection to Pyongyang, traveling to the isolated country comes with conditions and uncertainties.
North Korea as a New Destination for Russian Tourists
Recently, the Russian airline Nordwind began regular flights from Moscow to Pyongyang–the flight takes about eight hours. This connection is currently limited to a monthly frequency and, at a price of 45,000 rubles (about 484 euros), is expensive by Russian standards, especially since the average salary in Russia is only 800 euros. Nevertheless, interest in alternative long-haul destinations is growing in Russia, as Europe has become largely inaccessible to Russian tourists due to sanctions following the Ukraine war.
Previously, Nordwind flew its passengers to Europe–now North Korea is the new destination. This was made possible by a specially built resort on the east coast, which leader Kim Jong-Un had constructed for Russian guests.
Also interesting: The gigantic North Korea hotel that has been abandoned for almost 30 years
The Gigantic North Korea Hotel That Has Been Abandoned for Over 30 Years
The Gigantic North Korea Hotel That Has Been Abandoned for Over 30 Years
Vacation with Supervision–and Without Fruit
With the opening of the Wonsan-Kalma Resort, which is designed for up to 20,000 guests annually, the first thirteen Russian tourists arrived–accompanied by strict regulations. According to reports, they were monitored at every step, with escort personnel even present on the beach. The tourists’ interpretation: a “sweet precaution” to prevent anyone from getting lost.
The culinary offerings were also unusual: fruit was hardly available, but duck, rabbit, and fish were on the menu. Russian blogger Daria Subkova reported, according to BILD citing the British “Sun”: “They really made an effort.” However, it doesn’t sound like enthusiasm.
Sudden Closure–and Cautious Opening
Despite the great effort, the resort was suddenly closed to foreign guests shortly after its opening–allegedly only temporarily. No official reasons were given, but observers suspect that the high price and the previously complicated journey via a train connection through Vladivostok dampened interest.
Now, the regular scheduled flight is supposed to provide a fresh start. Whether North Korea will establish itself as a permanent travel destination remains to be seen. After all, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed confidence at the resort’s opening that “Russian tourists will have an increasing interest in coming here.” North Korea could certainly use the much-needed foreign currency–and Russia is looking for new travel destinations. Whether the strictly regulated North Korea will become the new “Russian Mallorca” remains to be seen.