A long layover in Wonsan is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Wonsan Kalma International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of WOS:
- Can you legally enter North Korea? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Private Car/Bus (Pre-arranged Tour), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the KPW. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Spend Your Time in Wonsan
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Wonsan, two standouts are:
- Songdowon International Children’s Camp — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Wonsan.
- Wonsan Beach Views — Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside WOS, you can spend time at Wonsan Kalma Airport Observation or try Airport Souvenir Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Wonsan Layover
- In the city: Wonsan Local Eatery and Wonsan Seafood Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Wonsan.
- At the airport: Airport Terminal Cafe and Airport Dining Area will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From WOS, the Private Car/Bus (Pre-arranged Tour) gets you to Wonsan in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Private Car/Bus (Pre-arranged Tour) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Wonsan, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Wonsan.
Storing Your Luggage at Wonsan Kalma International Airport
Luggage storage options at WOS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Wonsan for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at WOS should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in North Korea and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at WOS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in North Korea also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Wonsan exploring the streets or relaxing at WOS, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.