Donald Trump's Potential Resort in Pyongyang: Fact or Fiction?

Recent speculations have been swirling around whether former U.S. President Donald Trump would consider building a hotel or other resort projects in Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. Let's examine the facts and future prospects of such ventures.

The Unfinished Monument: The Ryugyong Hotel

Before diving into the current speculations, it is important to note that North Korea already has a colossal building standing as a monument to unfinished projects: the Ryugyong Hotel. This towering structure, known as the 'Hotel of Doom,' stands a mere 12 miles from the summit of Mount Paektu, a symbol of both historical and mythical significance in North Korean culture. The hotel's exterior is often lauded for its grandeur, much like a typical Trump-branded property, yet its interior remains unfinished and shambolic.

Is There Room for a Trump-Built Resort?

The idea of building a hotel or golf resort in Pyongyang is not entirely out of the realm of possibility, especially given Trump's well-documented interest in real estate, golf, and expanding his global influence. However, the current geopolitical climate and practical constraints make such a venture highly unlikely for the immediate future.

Building Hospitality or Destroying Them?

Speculation suggests that Trump might prioritize the construction of luxury accommodations to normalize relations with North Korea. In a telling quote, a source stated, 'Building hotels is far better than destroying them with precision-guided cruise missiles.' This sentiment encapsulates the current discourse surrounding potential economic engagement with North Korea over military action.

Never Without a Contest: Trump's Golf Ambitions

Given Trump's extensive involvement in golf courses around the world, it is not surprising that he would seek to introduce this sport to the often mysterious landscape of North Korea. In a January 2019 interview, a reporter asked Trump if he would like to have a golf course built in Pyongyang. Trump, responding with his trademark flair, suggested that he flew to Thailand from South Korea on a 747 aircraft, emphasizing his extensive travels and golfing habits. He called himself 'the golf cheat' in jest, indicating that he would indeed be interested in pursuing a golf course project in North Korea.

Trump's Real Estate Empire: A Pattern of Building

Historically, one of Trump's primary strategies in foreign policy is to build resorts and grow his real estate empire. During his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Singapore, Trump reportedly toured potential properties, a clear indication of his interest in developing tourism and hospitality in North Korea. This pattern extends beyond North Korea, with projects in the Philippines and Russia. A source close to Trump indicated that normalization of relations with North Korea could be facilitated through the development of resorts, with Trump himself admiring the potential properties during their meeting in Singapore.

The future of tourism and real estate development in North Korea remains uncertain. While the idea of a golf course or hotel resort might seem fantastical currently, the political and economic dynamics at play make it a real possibility. As North Korea looks to diversify its revenue sources and modernize its infrastructure, real estate ventures could play a significant role in this process.

However, investors and policymakers need to be aware that any project in North Korea would require careful planning and international cooperation. The current political environment, sanctions, and the unpredictable nature of North Korea's leadership make any such venture challenging and risky.