N. Korean government orders Rason to speed up transformation into tourist zone
North Korean authorities have ordered the Rason Free Economic Zone to eliminate all agricultural areas to transform it into a tourist-friendly urban zone, according to a directive from the central government. The directive aims to overhaul the region's international image and showcase the spirit of socialist North Korea to international visitors and investors. Acquiring materials is identified as the most critical factor in turning Rason into a tourist-friendly city, requiring imports of materials such as cement and rebar. The North Korean government's efforts to speed up Rason's urbanization are part of its larger goal to accumulate foreign currency.
[Source: Daily NK]
