Hamhung History: A Look at North Korea's Second Largest City
Hamhung, the second largest city in North Korea, is a major industrial and commercial hub located in the eastern part of the country. It is the capital of South Hamgyong Province and the largest city in the province, with a population of over 1.5 million people. The city has a long and storied history, beginning in the early 19th century when it was founded by the Chinese.
In the early 19th century, the Chinese established a trading post in the area that would eventually become Hamhung. This trading post later became a military base, and by the late 19th century, it was a bustling port city. The city was annexed by Japan in 1910, and it became a major industrial center for the Japanese Empire. During World War II, the city was heavily bombed by the Allied forces, and much of the city was destroyed.
Following the war, the city was rebuilt and it became a major industrial center for North Korea. The city is home to a number of factories and plants, including a large steel mill, chemical plants, and a fertilizer plant. It is also home to a number of universities, including the Hamhung University of Science and Technology. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, and it is a popular destination for tourists.
Hamhung is a major transportation hub in North Korea, and it is home to a number of railway lines and highways that connect it to other parts of the country. The city is also home to a number of airports, including the Hamhung International Airport, which serves domestic and international flights. Additionally, the city is connected to the sea by the Taedong River, which is a major waterway that connects the city to the Yellow Sea.
Hamhung is a major cultural center in North Korea, and it is home to a number of museums, galleries, and theaters. The city is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Hamhung Grand Monument, which is a large bronze statue that commemorates the city's history. Additionally, the city is home to a number of parks and gardens, including the Hamhung People's Park, which is a large public park that features a variety of attractions.
Hamhung is a major economic center in North Korea, and it is home to a number of large businesses and corporations. The city is also home to a number of markets, including the Hamhung Market, which is one of the largest markets in the country. Additionally, the city is home to a number of banks and financial institutions, including the Bank of North Korea.
Hamhung is a major tourist destination in North Korea, and it is home to a number of attractions, including the Hamhung Grand Monument, the Hamhung People's Park, and the Hamhung Market. Additionally, the city is home to a number of cultural sites, such as the Hamhung Museum of History and Culture, which features exhibits on the city's history and culture. Additionally, the city is home to a number of cultural festivals, such as the Hamhung International Film Festival, which showcases films from around the world.