North Korea Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un pictured grinning in ‘North Korean Benidorm’ as he enters women’s pool

North Korean despot Kim Jong-un has been seen grinning as he peers over a women’s spa pool bizarre new photographs.

The Supreme Leader turned up at the official opening of the Onpo Workers’ Recreation Centre in North Hamgyong Province yesterday afternoon – a newly-reopened resort previously described as the ‘North Korean Benidorm’. After a ribbon cutting ceremony, Kim kept his large winter coat on for all the photos, even when he was inside the warm spa building – but appeared to be thrilled at what he was seeing.

The hot spring spa was entirely remodelled after coming in for harsh criticism from Kim Jong-un back in 2018, when he singled it out for poor management and ‘shabby’ facilities. Speaking at the opening ceremony yesterday, he said: “Every section is arranged practically and harmoniously, with all architectural elements designed to blend with the surrounding natural environment.

“I remember when I visited here a few years ago… and severely criticised the uncultured and unhygienic management practices… Seeing this holiday camp, now rebuilt as an excellent rest facility for the people, fills me with pride that we have accomplished another meaningful task.”

During an inspection of the site in 2018, Kim Jong-un strongly criticised operations, saying the site was “worse than a fish tank” and “really shabby”. After his most recent visit, he ordered resort officials to prepare to open, giving instructions that the site should be fully opened next month.

Spa trips are being offered to members of North Korea’s ruling class along with foreign tourists from China and sanctions-hit Russia, with prices ranging between $1,000 (£743) to $1,350 (£1,000) for a week-long tour, excluding flights.