North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is set to open a new seaside resort in Wonsan-Kalma, North Korea, intended for both tourism and domestic use. The resort features shops, hotels, beach chairs, and a turtle-shaped arena, and is slated to welcome visitors nearly four years behind schedule. However, British nationals are prohibited from visiting due to the closure of North Korea’s borders to the UK.

The resort has already hosted Russian journalists and visitors in February. There is currently limited information provided to Russian tourism companies regarding future operations of the resort. This venture is part of Kim Jong Un’s efforts to emphasize domestic priorities alongside military activities.

This development coincides with heightened tensions between North and South Korea, marked by a recent exchange of balloon deliveries containing various items, including trash and propaganda materials. Notably, Russian president Vladimir Putin reportedly plans to visit North Korea, raising concerns among American and South Korean officials. They have agreed to closely monitor the situation and respond to any provocations.