Another N. Korean east coast tourism area in stage of completion

North Korea is developing another seaside tourism area in its northern east coast region, following this year's launch of the east coast Kalma tourist zone, according to state media Tuesday.

The North's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said the construction of a maritime park zone in Yombunjin, North Hamgyong Province, has reached its completion stage, with roads, stores, restaurants and other amenities already built.

The KCNA said paving and interior work are currently under way at a maritime inn in Yombunjin.

Yombunjin, located on North Korea's northern east coast, is where construction of a hotel was launched in 2011 under the instruction by late former leader Kim Jong-il.

As construction work had lagged for a long time, incumbent leader Kim Jong-un inspected the site in 2018, ordering a reconsideration of the hotel's design to better match modern tastes.

During the visit, Kim pointed to the favorable traffic conditions and the scenic beach landscape of Yombunjin, ordering the construction of additional accommodation facilities and a maritime park.

The development of a tourist spot in the area appears to be part of North Korea's growing interests in promoting tourism. In July, the North launched a major beach resort area in Kalma, located further down the east coast, in a bid to attract foreign tourists.