Wonsan Elite Airport

Not applicable. The site was not closed because it never operated as a conventional airport. Its purpose has always been to serve as an emergency runway for the Korean People's Army Air and Anti-Air Force (KPAAF), a role it continues to fulfill.

The site currently serves a dual purpose. Primarily, it is a functional section of a major North Korean highway. Concurrently, it is maintained in a state of readiness for its military role as an emergency runway. The name 'Wonsan Elite Airport' and the ICAO code 'KP-0008' are unofficial designations not recognized by international aviation authorities like ICAO or IATA. These identifiers likely originate from non-official sources such as flight simulator scenery databases.

The site is a purpose-built, hardened section of the Wonsan-Mt. Kumgang motorway, designed to function as a military runway. Its significance is strategic, forming part of a nationwide network of highway strips that allow North Korea to disperse its air assets away from primary airbases, which are vulnerable to attack. This doctrine increases the survivability and operational flexibility of the KPAAF during a conflict. While specific drills at this exact location are not publicly documented, North Korean state media has previously shown leader Kim Jong Un observing combat flight exercises involving takeoffs and landings from similar highway airfields, demonstrating their intended use.

There are no plans or prospects for this site to 'reopen' or be converted into a civilian airport. Its function is strictly military. The primary, modern airport serving the Wonsan region is the Wonsan Kalma International Airport (ICAO: ZKWS), located a short distance to the north.