Welcome to Jangdok Island, Wonsan, North Korea

Jangdok Island is one of the lesser-known gems nestled within the city of Wonsan, on North Korea's eastern seaboard. Wonsan is a port city and naval base with a rich history as a commercial and transportation hub. It has traditionally been a gateway for external influences to enter North Korea, including elements related to tourism.

The Emergence of Jangdok Island Tourism

Tourism in North Korea has been a complex sector, closely regulated by the government. While information on the history of tourism specifically in Jangdok Island is limited due to the country's isolation, it is known that North Korea began to open up to international tourists in the late 1950s, with a primary focus on visitors from socialist countries and later expanding to welcome tourists from a broader range of nations.

Jangdok Island and the city of Wonsan have gradually been integrated into North Korea's tourism plans. Wonsan itself has historically served as a retreat location for domestic tourists, seeking the comfort of its famous Songdowon Beach and engaging in relaxation and recreational activities. These domestic tourist activities expanded to the island itself, promoting the image of Jangdok as a place of natural beauty and simplicity.

Infrastructure Developments

In more recent times, under Kim Jong-un's leadership, North Korea has shown a renewed interest in promoting tourism as a means to gain foreign currency. Wonsan, including areas like Jangdok Island, has been at the heart of these initiatives. A plan to transform the area into the Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourism Zone was announced, aiming to attract international visitors by upgrading the infrastructure, including building hotels, leisure, and recreational facilities.

Tourism Trends in North Korea

In line with global tourism trends pre-pandemic, North Korea had been witnessing a slow but steady increase in international tourism, despite the political intricacies and sanctions imposed on the country. Tourists, often part of organized tours, would come to experience the untouched nature of the country, its distinct culture, and to get a glimpse of one of the world's most secretive societies.

Ecotourism has been on the rise in places such as Jangdok Island, where the preserved natural environment and the general lack of commercial development offer a unique experience for the few who venture there. Tourists who manage to visit Jangdok Island can expect quiet beaches, scenic landscapes, and insight into the local ways of life.

Current State and Future Outlook

The global pandemic brought a swift halt to tourism in North Korea, with the country closing its borders to protect itself from the outbreak. As such, the latest initiatives to boost tourism in Wonsan and Jangdok Island have faced significant delays. The future of tourism in North Korea, and specifically in Jangdok Island, remains uncertain as the country continues to prioritize its political agenda and the health concerns of its population.

Any future developments will be closely monitored by the international community, as North Korea's tourism sector provides a rare window into the isolated nation. For the adventurous traveler, Jangdok Island may someday provide an unmatched travel experience, rich in natural beauty and shrouded in the mystery of the hermit kingdom it belongs to.