Taegye island tourism is gaining popularity as North Koreans seek affordable alternatives to Wonsan-Kalma resort. Young people increasingly take day trips to the island. Residents from Sinuiju and other parts of North Pyongan province consider it a fun and budget-friendly destination.
Taegye island, located in Cholsan county, is North Korea’s largest reclaimed tideland. The project started in the early 1980s and took decades to complete. It covers about 30 square kilometers, although only a small fraction of the land is used for cultivation. Most of the area continues to produce salt, while other parts remain undeveloped.
Authorities initially planned to turn the island into farmland, but desalination and preparation proved too time-consuming. As a result, tourism unexpectedly became the island’s primary draw. Visitors enjoy scenic views, recreational activities, and social gatherings on the tideland.
Many travelers combine meals with outdoor cooking, particularly grilling clams. Locals recommend blood clams, purple butter clams, and mussels, often adding them to maeuntang, a spicy seafood stew with ramen seasoning. People bring cooking equipment and buy live clams from nearby markets to save money.
The cost of a DIY three-day seafood trip can be as low as $50 per person. Comparatively, visiting the Kalma coastline during peak season costs around $300 per person. Due to affordability, Taegye island tourism has earned the nickname “little Kalma” among young visitors.
Tourism facilities remain limited, but demand continues to grow. The island now hosts a few small restaurants, while recreational activities like picnics, walks, and cooking sessions attract steady crowds. Observers expect more restaurants and amenities to appear as visitor numbers increase.
Taegye island tourism also provides social opportunities. Young people pool funds for group trips and spend quality time together. The island offers a blend of nature, affordable entertainment, and local culinary experiences, making it a sought-after weekend destination.
Looking forward, experts predict that tourism will generate more revenue than agriculture on the island. The rising popularity of Taegye island tourism may encourage further investment in restaurants, recreational facilities, and accommodations.
Taegye island tourism highlights a shift in North Korea, where recreational activities increasingly complement or even replace original economic plans. Visitors continue to enjoy the island’s scenery, seafood, and community-driven experiences, showing its potential as a growing domestic tourist hub.
