Fancy a quick trip around The World, but one that you can do in an afternoon? Well, that was the original goal of the fated The World Islands project off the coast of Dubai. The archipelago of artificial islands constructed in the shape of a world map was a creative idea that allowed people to visit (or buy entirely) islands such as Lebanon, Sweden, Italy and… North Korea?
That’s right, according to Google Maps, one of the 300 islands that currently make up The World Islands is indeed named after the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Covering approximately 232km of shoreline, there are a total of 260 islands grouped under seven sets that represent different continents.
North Korea is located in the north east tip of the archipelago – which represents northern Asia. Naturally, sits right next to the neighbouring island of South Korea.
Construction of The World Islands began in 2003, with a majority of it completed before being halted around 2008. Approximately 60 percent of the islands have been sold to private contractors, however, only a handful of islands have undergone significant development so far.
This is the case for North Korea, which is currently still a sandy desert island, however, it has amassed more than 75 reviews on Google Maps, with a whopping 4.1 / 5 star approval rating. Not bad for a barren land mass.
Of the comments, most of them offer light-hearted jokes from people who have circled the island via boat. With one reviewer joked: “Had an outstanding experience on this island. I enjoyed speaking with Mr. Kim Jong-un. Excellent.”; while another quipped: “I went here. North Korea is much nicer than the papers make it look. Although I don’t know where all of the buildings went…”
In terms of actual built and completed projects, The World Islands is best known for its debut destination, The Island Dubai on the beaches of Lebanon – a laidback complex with restaurants, pools, chalets, watersports activities and entertainment spaces.
The Thai-inspired luxury resort Anantara has also taken up residence on Clarence Island – one of the islands closest to the Dubai shoreline offering getaways marked by lazy seaside days and picturesque al fresco dining.
The World is currently only accessible by marine or air transport, with resort guests taking a scenic 15-minute boat ride from the Dubai coast.