Kim Jong Un officially opens a tourism facility
Fresh Take:
Hey there! Let's chat about the latest happenings on Korea's eastern coast. North Korea's mastermind, Kim Jong Un, just unveiled a swanky new tourism resort in Wonsan Kalma. This badboy boasts posh accommodations, waterparks, and can handle 20,000 visitors—local and international—as reported by North Korea's state news agency KCNA. The grand opening for local explorers is set for July 1st.
Now, here's the juicy bit! Kim Jong Un's daughter, whose identity remains a mystery to many, joined her old man at the inauguration ceremony. Some experts consider her as a potential successor, thanks to her public appearances alongside her dad. But, keep in mind, Kim Ju-ae's name and age are still on lockdown by North Korea's authorities.
By the way, Kim Jong Un's missus, Ri Sol Ju, made her comeback to the limelight after more than a year and a half. In the snaps published by KCNA, she's carrying a nice little Gucci bag, which, oops, is a clear violation of UN sanctions banning the export of luxury goods to North Korea. Rumor has it that North Korean officials might've smuggled the bag through diplomatic pouches.
As for Wonsan Kalma, this multi-billion-dollar holiday hotspot's been in the works for over a decade. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic still going strong and North Korea maintaining tight control over foreign entry, doubts abound about the economic viability of such ventures.
Speaking of foreigners, North Korea seems to have an eye for the Russian market when it comes to tourism. Yup, you guessed it right! The Russian ambassador was present at Wonsan Kalma's opening ceremony. Thanks to a direct flight route between Vladivostok and Pyongyang, Russia is a prime target for international guests!
Just a heads up, the Federal Republic of Germany advises against traveling to North Korea. The German Embassy has been shut down since the pandemic started, and their official website strongly emphasizes this advice.
As for Kim Ju-ae, her public appearances alongside her parents could symbolize her as a possible successor, but more often than not, North Korea's future leaders are groomed in secret. So, her recent public appearance might actually serve other strategic purposes. And, with Ri Sol Ju making a reappearance after a long hiatus, it seems like a clever move to emphasize Kim Ju-ae's role while maintaining family unity.
- Despite the proposed tourism resort in Wonsan Kalma, the economic viability of such ventures remains uncertain due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and North Korea's strict border control.
- In the realm of North Korean lifestyle, the presence of luxury brands like Gucci in the hands of top officials, such as Ri Sol Ju, could potentially fuel international news, highlighting the violation of UN sanctions.
