Kim’s on course to lure tourists with golf resort
PLAY ‘GOLP’: New-look North Korea club
KIM Jong-un wants to turn North Korea into a golfers’ paradise after giving the nation’s only course a makeover.
The tyrant, who is pals with golf-mad US President Donald Trump, has sunk a fortune into upgrading the site. Kim’s state media released a four-minute video of the 18-hole course and hotel in the capital Pyongyang.
Although European players will be a bit confused by the new game called “Golp”.
The resort boasts a swimming pool, table tennis court, fitness centre, a restaurant and a golf boutique. And guests’ rooms have an electronic rice cooker.
A course spokesman said the enterprise aims to “inspire golf pros, enthusiasts and regular clients” to play the game and enjoy themselves.
The site is where Kim’s dad – former leader Kim Jong-il – claimed he shot a world record round of just 38 including 11 holes-inone. State media said he completed the round at his first ever go at the sport.
The official world record round on a pro course is 58 by US golfer Jim Furyk in 2016.
North Korea is bidding to become tourist friendly to boost its economy which is under heavy financial sanctions. Jong-un has invested in resorts to raise his nation’s profile since becoming leader in 2012.
Masikryong Ski Resort, completed in 2013, is estimated to have cost up to £30million.
The dictator is a huge sports fan and recently started showing edited one-hour Premier League football games.
However, fans are not allowed to see the league table and cannot access the internet to find out more about the teams.