The Ryugyong Hotel, an iconic skyscraper in Pyongyang, North Korea, stands as a monumental testament to the challenges and ambitions of the country’s architectural and economic undertakings. At a staggering 105 stories and 330 meters in height, it remains one of the tallest buildings in North Korea. The hotel’s history is marked by interrupted construction, shifting political climates, and evolving economic strategies.
Construction Beginnings and Stalling
The Ryugyong Hotel’s ambitious construction began in 1987 with an initial plan to open by 1992. The hotel was envisioned to be a symbol of North Korean grandeur and a centerpiece of Pyongyang’s skyline. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to a severe reduction in foreign aid and investment, causing construction to stall. This interruption lasted for nearly two decades, with the external structure reaching completion only in 2011.
Current Status and Usage
Despite the external completion, internal work on the Ryugyong Hotel remains unfinished. The building has since become a symbol of unfinished grandeur, frequently illuminated with LED lights that broadcast government propaganda. The incomplete interior stands as a stark contrast to the building’s imposing exterior.
Plans for a Casino
Recent reports by Radio Free Asia indicate a significant shift in the Ryugyong Hotel’s future. North Korean authorities are now considering transforming the building into a casino destination. According to a local resident with knowledge of the matter, a plan has been proposed to install a casino within the hotel, aimed at attracting foreign investment.
The North Korean government is offering the rights to operate this casino to any foreign company willing to complete the interior construction. This move is part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and generate revenue through foreign investments.
Government Endorsement
The idea of a casino in the Ryugyong Hotel was reportedly approved by North Korea’s Central Committee, following a review of the profitability of existing casinos in the country. This decision reflects a strategic push to enhance tourism infrastructure and attract international visitors, a plan driven by directives from North Korea’s supreme leader, Kim Jong Un.
Existing Casinos
Currently, North Korea operates two casinos: one located at the Yanggakdo Hotel in Pyongyang, exclusively for foreigners, and another at the Bipa Hotel in the Rason Special Economic Zone. These establishments cater to foreign tourists and are part of North Korea’s broader strategy to generate revenue from international visitors.
Tourism Revitalization Efforts
Kim Jong Un’s recent directive to promote tourism includes practical measures to improve Pyongyang’s attractiveness as a destination. The addition of a casino to the Ryugyong Hotel is seen as a critical component of this strategy. By completing the hotel’s accommodations, restaurants, swimming pool, and other facilities, North Korea aims to create a comprehensive tourism experience that can rejuvenate interest in the capital city.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The potential opening of a casino in the Ryugyong Hotel could significantly impact North Korea’s economy and tourism sector. If successful, it could attract substantial foreign investment and elevate Pyongyang’s status as a unique destination in the region. The completion of the hotel’s interior could also provide a boost to the local economy, creating jobs and enhancing the city’s infrastructure.
Challenges and Considerations
However, the project faces numerous challenges. The completion of the Ryugyong Hotel’s interior will require substantial investment, and securing foreign partners amidst North Korea’s isolationist policies could prove difficult. Additionally, the political climate and international sanctions might affect the feasibility of such ventures.
The Ryugyong Hotel stands at a crossroads, poised to transition from a symbol of halted ambition to a potential hub of tourism and entertainment. As North Korea seeks to revitalize its economy and attract foreign investment, the proposed casino could serve as a catalyst for significant change. The success of this initiative will depend on overcoming various hurdles, but it represents a bold step towards leveraging North Korea’s architectural landmarks to enhance its global appeal.