North Korea, with Russia's aid, constructs the Wonsan-Kalma luxury beach resort. Kim Jong-un's daughter, Kim Ju-ae, takes center stage at the inauguration, fueling succession speculation.
Russia-Korea: The growing strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia has reached new heights. Following North Korea's assistance to Russia in the Ukraine war, it has received an unexpected reward. Russia has helped construct a magnificent coastal tourism center, 'Wonsan-Kalma,' for North Korea. This beach is not only an attempt to change North Korea's internal image but also symbolizes the strength of Russia-North Korea relations.
Kim Jong-un's Daughter Kim Ju-ae in the Spotlight
Meanwhile, the biggest discussion is about North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's daughter, Kim Ju-ae. At the recent inauguration ceremony of Wonsan-Kalma, Kim Ju-ae was present with her father throughout. Media reports and analysts believe that Kim Jong-un is taking steps to establish his daughter as his successor.
Kim Ju-ae's Presence in Place of the First Lady
Usually, Kim's wife, Ri Sol-ju, would be present at such events, but this time, Kim Ju-ae played a role similar to that of the First Lady. She remained with her father continuously, received greetings from people, and was seen strolling along the beach with him. This further strengthened the signal that the legacy of power in North Korea may be handed over to a woman.
South Korea's Intelligence Report Raises Concerns
In a January 2024 report, South Korea's intelligence agency stated that Kim Ju-ae is being prepared as the future leader of North Korea. She has appeared with Kim Jong-un at several military and political events in recent years.
The End of Male Dominance in North Korea?
Until now, power in North Korea has always been in the hands of men. Both Kim Jong-un's father and grandfather were the supreme leaders of the country. But now, Kim Jong-un can break this tradition by making his daughter his successor. However, due to North Korea's secretive system and limited information, this is not entirely clear. Nevertheless, Kim Ju-ae's continuous public appearances and the special protocol she receives indicate that she may be the next leader of the country in the future.
Wonsan-Kalma: North Korea's New Tourism Dream
The Wonsan-Kalma coastal area, located on the eastern coast of North Korea, has been developed by the North Korean leadership as an international tourism center. This project is equipped with modern hotels, waterparks, vast residential facilities, and entertainment venues, which can accommodate around 20,000 guests.
Russia's Role is Important
The construction of this beach had been ongoing for several years, but the project was stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, Russia revived the project and provided assistance in its construction. The beach will now be opened for Russian tourists from July 1st. The Russian ambassador and other officials were specifically present at the inauguration ceremony.
North Korea's Help in the Ukraine War
According to information, North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 soldiers to Russia as assistance in the Ukraine war. In exchange for this military cooperation, Russia helped North Korea develop the tourist area. This deal is considered a new chapter in the military and strategic friendship between Russia and North Korea.
Kim Ju-ae is Receiving Special Recognition
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) has called Kim Ju-ae Kim's "dear" and "respected" daughter. This terminology is considered very important in North Korea and is usually used to create an image of the successor.
