North Korea halts foreign tourist visits to newly opened mega resort

North Korea has recently made headlines by halting the entry of foreign tourists to its newly opened mega beach resort, casting a shadow over what leader Kim Jong Un had touted as “one of the greatest successes” of his regime. This unexpected move has left many wondering about the reasons behind this decision and its impact on the country’s tourism industry.

The Masikryong Ski Resort, located on the east coast of North Korea, was opened in 2013 and has since been a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. The resort boasts of luxurious hotels, ski slopes, and a beautiful beach, making it a one-of-a-kind vacation spot in the country. However, the recent announcement by the North Korean government to halt the entry of foreign tourists to the resort has raised concerns about the future of tourism in the country.

The decision to close the Masikryong Ski Resort to foreign tourists has been attributed to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. North Korea has taken strict measures to prevent the spread of the virus, including closing its borders and imposing a mandatory 15-day quarantine for all visitors. With the recent surge in COVID-19 cases around the world, the government has decided to temporarily suspend the entry of foreign tourists to the resort as a precautionary measure.

While this may come as a disappointment to those who had planned to visit the resort, it is important to understand the gravity of the situation and the government’s efforts to protect its citizens and visitors. North Korea has been successful in containing the spread of the virus within its borders, and this decision is a testament to their commitment to keeping their people safe.

Moreover, this temporary halt in tourism should not discourage travelers from visiting North Korea in the future. The country has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty. The Masikryong Ski Resort is just one of the many attractions in the country, and there are still plenty of other places to explore and experience.

In fact, the North Korean government has been actively promoting tourism in recent years, with the aim of boosting its economy and improving its image on the global stage. The country has been investing in infrastructure and developing new tourist destinations, such as the Wonsan-Kalma coastal tourist area, which is set to open in the near future. This shows the government’s commitment to developing its tourism industry and providing visitors with a unique and memorable experience.

Furthermore, North Korea has always been a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. Despite the negative portrayal in the media, those who have visited the country can attest to the warm hospitality and kindness of the local people. The government has also taken steps to ensure the safety of tourists, with strict regulations in place to prevent any harm or inconvenience to visitors.

In conclusion, while the temporary halt in tourism to the Masikryong Ski Resort may be disappointing, it is a necessary step to ensure the safety of both visitors and locals. North Korea remains a unique and fascinating destination, and this decision should not discourage travelers from visiting in the future. The country’s commitment to developing its tourism industry and providing visitors with a memorable experience is a testament to its potential as a top tourist destination. Let us look forward to the day when the Masikryong Ski Resort and other attractions in North Korea will once again welcome tourists from all over the world.