Nestled in the heart of Pyongyang, North Korea, stands one of the world’s most infamous architectural projects—the Ryugyong Hotel. This colossal structure, towering at 1,080 feet with 105 stories, has captured global attention as a symbol of ambition and unfulfilled dreams. Construction commenced in 1987 but faced numerous interruptions due to economic challenges within the country. Despite its incomplete state, it remains an iconic landmark that dominates the cityscape. Over the years, attempts have been made to revitalize the project, yet it still awaits its first guest. The estimated cost to finalize this behemoth is staggering, equating to approximately 5% of North Korea’s GDP.
In the late 1980s, North Korea embarked on an ambitious plan to construct what would become the tallest hotel globally. Initiated in 1987, the Ryugyong Hotel was envisioned as a showcase of modernity and progress for the isolated nation. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 severely impacted North Korea's economy, halting construction indefinitely by 1992. For nearly two decades, the skeletal frame stood idle until renewed efforts emerged in 2008 when an Egyptian contractor took over the project. They installed glass panels and began exterior work, though internal completion remained elusive.
The distinctive pyramid design comprises three wings converging at the apex, each measuring 328 feet in length. Atop lies an eight-story cone intended for revolving restaurants—a feature that remains unfulfilled. Beyond its primary purpose, the building serves various secondary roles. It acts as a backdrop for cultural performances and displays propaganda messages via over 100,000 LED screens adorning its facade. These lights illuminate nightly shows featuring political slogans and symbols, captivating viewers despite the absence of functional electricity inside the structure itself.
Recent developments hint at potential new uses for the Ryugyong Hotel. Reports suggest North Korean authorities are exploring foreign investments to establish a casino within its vacant halls, inspired by the success of similar ventures at other Pyongyang hotels. Such initiatives aim to attract international visitors and generate revenue while possibly advancing the long-stalled interior works.
Despite these aspirations, the Ryugyong Hotel continues to embody its ominous nickname—"Hotel of Doom." Named after Pyongyang's historical moniker meaning "capital of willows," the building looms large over the city, shrouded in mist and mystery. Its story reflects the broader narrative of North Korea's struggles and resilience, standing as both a monument to past ambitions and a beacon of future possibilities. As discussions about its fate persist, the world watches anxiously, hoping this colossal endeavor might eventually welcome guests and fulfill its original purpose.