The Hidden Oasis of Wonsan: Kim Jong Un’s Family Retreat

Wonsan, a city deeply rooted in the Kim family’s history, serves as a significant retreat for North Korea’s ruling elite. This article explores the city’s connection to Kim Jong Un and its evolution as a leisure destination since the days of his father, Kim Jong Il.

A Childhood Connection

Wonsan is known as a place where Kim Jong Un spent part of his childhood, as noted by biographers and intelligence analysts. According to a specialist who spoke with the BBC, the city has held a special association with the Kim family since Kim Jong Il’s leadership. It becomes evident that Wonsan is not just a geographic location, but also a symbol of family legacy.

The Elite Getaway

A North Korean defector, who dedicated 13 years to guarding properties frequented by Kim Jong Il from the 1990s to early 2000s, recounted his experiences in Wonsan. He described the area’s luxurious villas as favored retreats for the elite, where he often observed scenes of children and teenagers enjoying summer activities like waterskiing. This insight paints a vivid picture of the lifestyle enjoyed by the privileged few in North Korea.

State Media’s Narrative

Interestingly, North Korean state media seldom portrays Kim’s leisure activities as mere vacations. Instead, these trips are often framed as official inspections or guidance visits. However, despite the official narrative, defectors revealed an awareness among some North Koreans about the Kim family’s holiday habits in Wonsan, hinting at a subtle divide between the state’s portrayal and the public’s understanding.

A Growing Tourist Destination

Wonsan is increasingly marketed as a vibrant tourist hub, with state media touting its high-rise hotels, dining options, retail stores, sports facilities, and water parks. The city reportedly has the capacity to host nearly 20,000 visitors, drawing both locals and tourists alike.

Recently, images circulated from both state and Russian media showing small groups of Russian tourists at the Wonsan Kalma resort, which had its grand opening in July 2025. Although aimed at attracting international visitors, the resort is also accessible to North Korean residents, further promoting the city as a destination for relaxation and leisure.

Conclusion

Wonsan stands as a fascinating testament to the interplay between privilege and public perception in North Korea. As it transforms into a vacation hotspot for both elites and foreign visitors, its rich connections to the Kim dynasty cannot be overlooked.