Some tour agencies are sceptical of Wonsan’s appeal to foreigners. It is “unlikely to be a major draw for most Western tourists”, Mr Beard says.
“Key sites like Pyongyang, the DMZ, and other brutalist or communist landmarks will continue to be the main highlights for international visitors once broader tourism resumes.”
Elliott Davies, director of Uri Tours, however, says North Korea holds a “niche appeal” for travellers drawn to unconventional destinations.
“It’s intriguing to experience something as familiar as a beach resort that’s been shaped within the unique cultural context of North Korea.”
KCNA described the Wonsan development as a “great auspicious event of the whole country” and called it a “prelude to the new era” in tourism.
It was initially scheduled to open in October 2019, but ran into construction delays before the pandemic struck.
Kim attended a ceremony to celebrate its completion on 24 June, accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae and wife Ri Sol Ju. It marked Ri’s first public appearance since a New Year’s Day event.
Russian ambassador Alexander Matsegora and embassy staff also attended.
Some tour operators expect the resort to be opened to Russian tourists, who are currently the only foreign nationals allowed into some parts of the country.
The resort’s opening comes as North Korea and Russia strengthen their partnership in the face of sanctions from the West.
North Korea has sent troops to fight with Russia against Ukraine.
On Thursday, the two countries also reopened a direct passenger train route between their capitals after a five-year suspension because of the pandemic.