Kim Jong-un Hosts Russian Foreign Minister on Luxurious Yacht in Wonsan

On July 12, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was seen meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov aboard a luxurious yacht. This meeting, held in Wonsan rather than the capital Pyongyang, has sparked interpretations of a strategic intent behind the location choice.

State media, Korean Central Television (조선중앙TV), aired footage of the encounter on July 13, showcasing the white yacht arriving at the Wonsan harbor. Lavrov, who arrived by car, boarded the yacht where he was warmly greeted by Kim, who referred to him as a 'friendly comrade' and embraced him. The yacht's deck featured a lavish atmosphere, complete with lighting that shielded guests from the sun while offering views of the sea.

Inside, the meeting was held at a table adorned with gold decorations, and the interior boasted sophisticated downlight fixtures, suggesting a level of luxury that is typically challenging for North Korea to achieve. Experts believe this yacht is the '999 yacht,' a 48-meter vessel inherited from Kim's father, Kim Jong-il.

The choice of Wonsan for Lavrov's visit, along with the yacht meeting, is seen as an unusual move, likely aimed at promoting the newly opened Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area to attract Russian tourists. A banquet welcoming Lavrov was also held at the prestigious Myongsasipri Hotel in Wonsan, a location Kim had recently inspected with his daughter, Kim Ju-ae, and wife, Ri Sol-ju.

During their discussions, Kim explained that he believed meeting in Wonsan would be more beneficial due to Lavrov's active diplomatic engagements, suggesting it would provide a more relaxed environment. Lavrov, in turn, promised to facilitate increased tourist traffic to the Wonsan resort, including the establishment of flight routes, expressing confidence that Russian tourists would visit more frequently.

After concluding his visit, Lavrov departed from Wonsan Kalma Airport, which has transitioned from a military base to a civilian airport as part of Kim's development plans for the coastal tourist area. He was seen off by Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui and Alexander Matsegora, the Russian ambassador to North Korea.