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Anju, North Korea
Region: South Pyongan Province
Geographic Coordinates: 39.620000, 125.660000
Population: 240117
Language: Korean
unknown
Important Landmarks
- Anju City Stadium
- Chongryu Bridge
- Ponghwa Revolutionary Site
- Paeksan Pavilion
- Songam Caverns
- Chongnyu Temple
- Mangyongdae Revolutionary Museum
- Taesongsan Funfair
- Ryongsuksa Temple
- Mangyondae Native House
Primary Industries
- There is limited information available about the major industries and businesses in Anju, North Korea.
- However, it is known that Anju is a significant agricultural center with crops such as rice, wheat, barley, and corn being grown in the surrounding areas.
- The city also has a number of factories producing textiles and other goods.
- Additionally, there are reports of mining activities in the region for minerals such as coal and iron ore.
Noteable History
- Anju Uprising: In 1946, anti-communist guerrilla fighters led an uprising against the newly established communist government of North Korea.
- Kim Jong-suk: Kim Jong-suk was born in Anju and is considered a national hero in North Korea as the first wife of North Korean leader Kim Il-sung.
- Korean War: During the Korean War (1950-1953), American forces heavily bombed Anju due to its importance as a transportation hub for supplies going to Pyongyang.
- Ryugyong Hotel: The massive Ryugyong Hotel, located in Pyongyang, can be seen from Anju on clear days but was only recently completed after construction stopped due to economic problems.
- Juche ideology: Juche is an ideology developed by Kim Il-sung that emphasizes self-reliance, independence, and sovereignty for North Korea.
- Agriculture: Rice paddies and fruit orchards are prevalent in Anju’s economy due to its focus on agriculture.
- Military base: A military base near Anju houses troops from both China and North Korea.
- Choe Yong-gon: Born in Anju, Choe Yong-gon served as Vice Premier from 2007 until his death in 2015.
- Mount Kumgang: A sacred mountain near Anju that has been a popular tourist destination for South Koreans but has had restricted access since 2008 due to political tensions between the two countries.
- Songun policy: The Songun policy prioritizes military spending over other sectors of the economy adopted by North Korea under Kim Jong-il closely associated with several military bases and factories producing weapons near Anju.
Museums and Things To See
- Anju Folklore Museum: This museum showcases the traditional culture and customs of the Korean people.
- Anju Revolutionary Site: This site commemorates the revolutionary activities that took place during the Korean War.
- Ponghak Falls: A beautiful waterfall located near Anju that is a popular spot for picnics and hiking.
- Chongryu Temple: A historic Buddhist temple known for its ancient architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Kumgangsan Palace Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in a scenic mountainous area near Anju.
- The Monument to Party Founding: A massive monument dedicated to the founding of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party of Korea.
- The Tomb of King Wanggon: The burial site of King Wanggon, founder of Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392).
Please note that travel restrictions may apply to foreign visitors in North Korea, and it is recommended to check with your embassy before planning any trip there.
Sports Teams
- Anju is not known for having any notable sports teams or a significant sporting history.
- North Korea’s most successful sports teams are usually associated with the capital city, Pyongyang.
- The country’s national football team has qualified for two FIFA World Cups and won the AFC Asian Cup twice.
- The women’s football team has also won multiple AFC Women’s Asian Cups and reached the quarter-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2007.
- North Korea is also known for its success in weightlifting, with Olympic gold medals won by athletes such as Pak Hyon-Suk and Om Yun-Chol.
- However, it is unclear if Anju has any specific sports teams or achievements to note.
Cultural Events
- Anju is a city located in North Korea that hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
- The Anju Chrysanthemum Festival held in October showcases chrysanthemums through exhibitions and performances.
- The Anju Folk Song Festival celebrates traditional Korean folk songs with local artists’ performances.
- Kim Il Sung’s Birthday Celebration is celebrated on April 15th each year with parades and other festivities.
- The Arirang Mass Games, held annually in Pyongyang, features thousands of performers showcasing synchronized gymnastics, dance, and music.
- On August 15th each year, North Koreans celebrate National Liberation Day from Japanese colonial rule with parades and other patriotic activities.
- It’s important to note that obtaining detailed information about specific events or festivals happening in smaller cities like Anju may be difficult due to limited access to information from North Korea.
- Anju, North Korea has a few parks:
- Anju City Park
- Kangso Mineral Water Park
- These parks provide amenities such as:
- Walking paths
- Playgrounds
- Picnic areas
- Sports facilities
- Recreational activities may include:
- Hiking trails
- Fishing spots along rivers or lakes nearby
- Other outdoor activities offered by local tour operators
- However, it is important to note that access to these locations may be restricted for tourists and visitors due to:
- Political reasons
- Travel advisories issued by foreign governments