See ‘Pyonghattan’: North Korea’s modern new skyscraper district

Key Concepts

• Pyongyang Redevelopment: Large-scale construction and modernization projects in North Korea’s capital city.
• Sanctions Evasion: North Korea’s methods of funding these projects despite international sanctions, including cryptocurrency.
• Wanan Calma Beach Resort: A newly constructed resort intended for tourism, initially focused on Russian visitors.
• Pyongyang Metro: The city’s subway system undergoing modernization, reflecting changing aesthetics and priorities.
• Cryptocurrency & Illicit Funding: The use of cryptocurrency to circumvent financial restrictions and generate revenue.

Pyongyang’s Transformation: Construction & Modernization

North Korea is undertaking significant redevelopment projects in Pyongyang, despite ongoing international sanctions. These projects include the construction of numerous high-rise residential buildings, a modernized subway system, and a new beach resort. Specifically mentioned are the Songhwa-ri 80-story apartments in the eastern district and the Ryomyong-ri 80-story apartments in the northern district. These high-rise buildings are now occupied by ordinary workers, with state media emphasizing the improved living conditions for citizens as a result of these developments. The narrative presented focuses on providing “clear and happy lives” for the people alongside the nation’s transformation.

The Pyongyang Metro: From Cold War Aesthetic to Modernization

The Pyongyang Metro, first opened in 1972 with trains imported from China, is undergoing a substantial facelift. Originally characterized by a “Cold War vibe” – muted colors, wood-paneled train interiors, and propaganda murals – several stations are being renovated. Yonggwang station is cited as an example, featuring long escalators leading to a revamped platform. Officials state the modernized metro stations guarantee convenience for citizens and incorporate architectural and decorative elements reflecting specific themes at each station, aiming for a “perfectly artistic” environment. The system currently consists of two lines and 16 stations, but does not extend to the city’s newest suburban areas where the high-rise buildings are located. A statement highlights that the changes in Pyongyang are palpable not only through the new districts but also through the subway system: “오늘 변천된 평양의 모습은 새로선 고리들뿐 아니라 우리 지하철도를 통해서도 체감할 수 있습니다.” (Today’s transformed appearance of Pyongyang can be felt not only through the new districts but also through our subway system).

Wanan Calma Beach Resort: A Failed Tourism Venture?

More than 200 km north of Pyongyang, the Wanan Calma Beach Resort was opened in the summer of 2025. The resort spans 5 km of coastline and boasts a capacity for nearly 20,000 people, with over 50 hotels, water parks, and restaurants. Initially, the resort was primarily targeted towards Russian tourists. However, it has since been closed to all visitors. Prior to these closures, access to North Korea was extremely limited, with only approximately 175 US citizens allowed to visit annually, and only on pre-approved package tours to select locations. Chinese tourists previously constituted the largest group of foreign visitors, accounting for an estimated 90% of all foreign tourism. However, flights between China and North Korea have significantly decreased.

Sanctions Evasion & Cryptocurrency

Despite international sanctions, North Korea continues to generate revenue. The report indicates that the nation is utilizing illicit activities, including cyberattacks, to fund its projects. Specifically, it is alleged that North Korea accessed approximately $1 billion USD in cryptocurrency in 2025 alone. The report suggests that the level of support received from Moscow is less than the weapons the nation is acquiring, and that North Korea is actively seeking alternative funding sources. The report notes the connection between the conflict in Ukraine and North Korea’s activities, implying a potential increase in illicit funding due to the global situation.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

North Korea is demonstrably investing heavily in domestic infrastructure and modernization projects, particularly in Pyongyang, despite facing significant international sanctions. While these projects are presented as improvements to the quality of life for citizens, they are funded through increasingly sophisticated methods of sanctions evasion, notably the exploitation of cryptocurrency. The Wanan Calma Beach Resort, intended to boost tourism, appears to have stalled, highlighting the challenges North Korea faces in attracting foreign investment and visitors. The ongoing redevelopment efforts, coupled with illicit financial activities, suggest a determined effort to strengthen the nation’s economy and project an image of progress, even in the face of global isolation.