bbc.com
Wonsan Kalma Resort Opens Amidst Human Rights Concerns
North Korea's new Wonsan Kalma beach resort, opened last month and inspired by Benidorm, welcomed its first Russian tourists this week amidst human rights concerns regarding its construction, which allegedly involved forced labor and resulted in the demolition of homes and displacement of residents.
- What are the immediate economic and geopolitical implications of Wonsan Kalma resort's opening and initial reception of Russian tourists?
- A new beach resort in North Korea, Wonsan Kalma, opened this month, welcoming its first Russian tourists. Construction, raising human rights concerns due to alleged forced labor and harsh conditions, involved a rapid building phase largely completed by late 2018, followed by a pause and recent resumption after a Putin-Kim meeting.
- How did the resort's construction process, including its design inspiration and reported use of forced labor, contribute to human rights concerns?
- The resort's design, inspired by a Spanish resort, Benidorm, aims to attract over one million tourists, primarily from China and Russia. However, an expert casts doubt on its appeal to Russian tourists due to superior alternatives. The resort's construction involved the demolition of existing buildings and relocation of residents, raising concerns about compensation and human rights.
- What are the long-term prospects for Wonsan Kalma's success, considering its economic goals, human rights issues, and the potential appeal to international tourists?
- Wonsan Kalma's success hinges on attracting significant foreign tourism to bolster North Korea's economy and strengthen ties with Russia. However, the resort's human rights record and the questionable appeal to international tourists pose significant challenges to its long-term viability and its ability to fulfill its economic objectives. The resort's future will be closely tied to geopolitical dynamics and North Korea's willingness to address human rights concerns.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative strongly emphasizes the negative aspects of the resort's construction, placing human rights abuses at the forefront. The headline itself subtly hints at criticism. The repeated use of phrases like "human cost," "harsh treatment," and "forced labor" frames the story negatively from the beginning. While positive aspects of the resort are mentioned, they are presented with less emphasis and often followed by counterpoints highlighting negative elements.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language throughout, such as "brutal conditions," "shock brigades," and "harsh treatment." These phrases evoke strong negative emotions and shape the reader's perception of the resort. The use of terms like "whirlwind construction" implies questionable labor practices. More neutral alternatives could be used, such as 'rapid construction,' 'expedited construction,' or phrases describing the pace without implying exploitative labor practices.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative aspects of the Wonsan Kalma resort's construction, particularly human rights abuses. While it mentions the resort's opening ceremony and planned amenities, it omits details about the positive economic impacts the resort might have on North Korea or the potential benefits for local residents, besides providing jobs (which are presented negatively). The article also doesn't explore alternative perspectives from North Korean officials or citizens who might view the resort differently. The lack of this balanced view creates an incomplete picture.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by framing the resort as either a symbol of human rights abuses or a successful tourism venture. It doesn't adequately explore the complexities of North Korea's economic and political situation, which might influence the resort's development and operation. The implication is that the resort is either unequivocally good or unequivocally bad, ignoring the potential for a more nuanced reality.
Gender Bias
The article includes accounts from both male and female sources, but the experiences described by women (Cho Chung Hui and Kang Gyuri) focus disproportionately on physical strain, while men's experiences are described in broader terms. While this might reflect their personal experiences, the subtle emphasis on women's physical suffering could reinforce gender stereotypes related to endurance and resilience.
Sustainable Development Goals
The construction of the Wonsan Kalma resort involved the use of "shock brigades," characterized by harsh conditions, long hours, and inadequate compensation, exacerbating inequality and violating workers' rights. The displacement of residents without compensation further contributes to inequality. The resort benefits the elite and foreign tourists while neglecting the well-being of local workers and residents.