North Korea bans foreign tourists from its glitzy new beach resort

North Korea has banned foreign tourists from its newly opened beach resort, just weeks after promoting it as a "world-class" destination. The temporary closure was announced by DRP Korea Tour, with no reasons provided. The Wonsan-Kalma resort, opened on June 24, was initially delayed by sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic. It features 40 hotels along 2.5 miles of coastline and is designed to attract international visitors.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had recently visited, labeling it the resort's "first foreign guest." Despite the fanfare, analysts suggest the resort may not yet be fully operational. The ban raises questions about readiness and future tourism strategies. As tourism is crucial for North Korea's economy, experts warn that continued restrictions on foreign visitors could threaten financial viability.