Kimchaek


Kimch'aek, formerly Sŏngjin, is a city in North Hamgyong Province, North Korea. It was an open port in 1899. It has a population of 207,699.

Etymology

The city received its current name in 1951 during the Korean War, in honor of the Korean People's Army general, Kim Chaek. It was known as "Shirotsu" during Japanese rule between 1910 and 1945.

Climate

Kimchaek has a hot-summer humid continental climate.

Administrative divisions

Kimch'aek-si is divided into 22 tong and 22 ri :

Economy

Kimchaek is an important port on the Sea of Japan, and is home to an ironworks and the Kimch’aek Polytechnic Institute.

Transport

Kimchaek is on the Pyongra Line railway.