Chongjin: North Korea’s Third Largest City
Situated in the far north of North Korea, Chongjin is the country’s third largest city. It is the administrative and economic hub of North Hamgyong province, and is home to a population of nearly 600,000 people. This bustling port city is known for its industrial production, and is the site of several major factories, including a steel mill and a shipbuilding yard. Despite its relative prosperity, Chongjin has been the subject of much international scrutiny due to its harsh living conditions and lack of freedom.
A Brief History of Chongjin
Chongjin has been inhabited since the late 17th century, when it was a small fishing village known as “Songjin”. The city was renamed “Chongjin” in 1878 and became a major port in the early 1900s. During the Korean War, the city was heavily damaged by US bombing raids, but was soon rebuilt. The city has since become a major industrial center in North Korea, and is home to several factories, including the city’s flagship steel mill.
Exploring Chongjin
Chongjin has a unique urban landscape, with a mix of colonial-style buildings and Soviet-era architecture. The city’s main attractions include the Chongjin Central Square, which features a large statue of North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung. Other popular sites include the Yanggakdo Hotel, which is located on a small island in the middle of the Taedong River. The city also has several parks and monuments, including the Monument to the People’s Heroes, which is a tribute to the Korean People’s Army.
Living in Chongjin
Living in Chongjin is not for the faint of heart. The city is a tightly-controlled environment, and visitors must adhere to the strict rules set forth by the government. Access to foreign media is strictly prohibited, and the city is heavily monitored by the government. Despite these restrictions, Chongjin is a vibrant and bustling city, and its residents enjoy a relatively high standard of living.
Getting To and From Chongjin
Chongjin is accessible by air, road, and sea. The city has its own airport, and there are regular flights to and from Pyongyang and other major cities in North Korea. The city is also connected by road and rail to other major centers in North Korea, including Pyongyang. The city’s port is one of the busiest in the country, and there are regular ferry services to and from China and Russia.
Final Thoughts
Chongjin is an intriguing city filled with history and culture. Despite its harsh living conditions and lack of freedom, the city is a bustling port city with a vibrant economy. Visitors to the city can expect to find a unique urban landscape, with a mix of colonial-style buildings and Soviet-era architecture. Despite the restrictions placed upon them by the government, the people of Chongjin enjoy a relatively high standard of living.