North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was captured on camera smiling while observing a women’s spa pool in new and unusual photographs. He attended the grand opening of the Onpo Workers’ Recreation Centre in North Hamgyong Province, a resort that has been dubbed the ‘North Korean Benidorm.’ Despite being indoors at the warm spa building, Kim opted to keep his heavy winter coat on during the event, showcasing his excitement at the sights before him.
The hot spring spa underwent a complete renovation following severe criticism from Kim Jong-un in 2018 for its poor management and outdated facilities. During the recent opening ceremony, Kim expressed satisfaction with the revamped facility, praising the practical and harmonious arrangement of each section and the seamless integration of architectural elements with the natural surroundings.
In a previous inspection in 2018, Kim Jong-un had harshly condemned the spa, comparing it to a fish tank and deeming it shabby. After his recent visit, he instructed resort officials to prepare for a full opening next month. The spa now offers trips to North Korea’s elite and tourists from China and Russia at prices ranging from $1,000 to $1,350 for a week-long tour, excluding airfare.
Images released by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency depicted Kim Jong-un peering over the pool’s edge, smiling at the women present while still clad in his bulky coat. The leader explored various areas of the recreation center, including treatment rooms and informational displays, showcasing the new and improved amenities.