A recent visit by Russian tourists to North Korea's newly developed Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone has drawn international attention, particularly due to the unique souvenirs on offer, including models of the Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile. This rare trip underscores the burgeoning ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, as North Korea gradually reopens its borders to select international visitors. The Wall Street Journal highlighted the peculiar experience, stating, > "Sun, sea and a souvenir model of the Hwasong-17 missile: what Russian tourists saw on a rare visit to North Korea’s new vacation spot."
The Wonsan-Kalma beach resort, touted as North Korea's largest tourist site, began welcoming its first group of Russian tourists in July, following its initial opening to domestic travelers. This eight-day package tour, which also includes visits to key attractions in Pyongyang, marks a significant step in North Korea's efforts to revive its tourism sector after years of pandemic-induced isolation. Russian state news agency TASS reported that the first group departed on July 7, signaling a new phase in bilateral tourism.
This influx of Russian tourists aligns with a broader trend of deepening cooperation between North Korea and Russia, particularly since the September summit between leaders Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin. With many traditional destinations becoming less accessible for Russian travelers due to international sanctions, Russian tour operators are actively seeking new, friendly locales where ruble payments are accepted. Earlier in February 2024, Russian ski trippers were among the first foreign tourists allowed into the country since early 2020, visiting other areas.
The Hwasong-17 missile, featured as a souvenir, is North Korea's largest road-mobile, liquid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile, first unveiled in October 2020. This massive two-stage weapon, successfully test-fired in November 2022, is designed to carry multiple warheads and is capable of reaching most of the contiguous United States. Its presence as a tourist memento at a leisure resort highlights the unusual blend of military symbolism and nascent tourism within the reclusive nation.
The visit to Wonsan-Kalma and the availability of such distinctive souvenirs illustrate North Korea's unique approach to international engagement and its strategic partnership with Russia. While offering a glimpse into the country's developing tourism infrastructure, the experience simultaneously reinforces the nation's military-first ideology. This development suggests a cautious but deliberate reopening strategy, prioritizing allies like Russia in its efforts to attract foreign currency and showcase its capabilities.