Kusŏng, North Korea
Region: Kusŏng is located in North Pyongan Province
Geographic Coordinates: 39.966700, 125.167000
Temperature Range: -30.0°C to 35.0°C (-22°F to 95°F)
Population: 196515
Language: Korean
Kusŏng is a city situated in North Korea’s North Pyongan province, Located on the banks of the Taeryong River. The city has a population of around 200, 000 people and is known for its heavy industry, Particularly in chemical and machinery production. One of Kusŏng’s most significant features is its large fertilizer factory that was built with Soviet assistance back in the 1960s. This factory produces various types of fertilizers used to support agricultural production throughout North Korea. In recent years, The government has invested heavily in modernizing and expanding this facility to increase production capacity.
Kusŏng also has several factories that produce tractors, Construction equipment, Textile machinery and other machines both for domestic use and exportation purposes. Furthermore, Kusŏng boasts several universities and research institutions dedicated to science and technology. One such institution is Kusŏng University which offers degrees in fields like chemistry, Physics computer science among others. Apart from its industrial focus, Kusŏng offers some cultural attractions as well. The Revolutionary Site at Taehongdan commemorates an important battle during the Korean War where Kim Il-sung reportedly led his troops to victory against American forces.
Overall, Kusŏng plays a vital role in supporting North Korea’s economy through its heavy industry output while contributing to advancements in science and technology through education institutions within its borders.
Primary Industries
- Kusŏng, North Korea is known for its military industry and has a large number of factories producing weapons and ammunition.
- It also has a chemical industry that produces fertilizers, plastics, and other chemicals.
- Additionally, the city has some agriculture-related industries such as food processing plants and animal feed factories.
Noteable History
- Kusŏng Revolutionary Site: This site is located on Mount Paektu and is where Kim Il-sung reportedly organized his guerrilla army during the Japanese occupation of Korea.
- Kusŏng Machine Tool Factory: This factory was built in the 1970s and is one of North Korea’s largest machine tool factories.
- Songun Revolutionary Leadership Academy: This military academy was established in 1987 to train future leaders of the Korean People’s Army.
- Kim Jong-suk: She was the first wife of Kim Il-sung and a prominent figure in North Korean history. She is believed to have been born near Kusŏng.
- Choe Yong-rim: He served as the Premier of North Korea from 2010 to 2013 and was born in Kusŏng.
- Ri Ul-sol: He served as Prime Minister of North Korea from 1957 to 1972 and was also born in Kusŏng.
- Pak Ui-chun: He served as Foreign Minister of North Korea from 2007 to 2016 and was born near Kusŏng.
- Hyon Song-wol: She is a famous singer who leads the Moranbong Band, which has performed for Kim Jong-un several times, including at a concert held in Kusŏng in April 2018.
- Kim Jong-un’s visit: In May,2021 there were reports that leader Kim Jong Un visited an agricultural chemical plant under construction which could be significant for developing agriculture sector.
Museums and Things To See
- Kusong Revolutionary Site – a museum and monument complex commemorating the revolutionary activities of Kim Il-sung during the Korean War
- Kusong Art Museum – displays works of art created by local artists and showcases the cultural heritage of North Korea
- Chongsan-ri Cooperative Farm – famous for its innovative agricultural practices and serves as a model cooperative farm in North Korea
- Taehung Youth Hero Mine – named after two young miners who died while working in it during the Korean War and has been turned into a museum
- Puyong Pavilion – built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside
It’s important to note that visitors to North Korea must be accompanied by government-approved guides at all times, and their itinerary will be strictly controlled by authorities.
Cultural Events
- Kusŏng Apple Festival – Celebrating the harvest season of apples in Kusŏng, this festival features apple-themed activities such as apple picking, cider making, and apple pie baking contests.
- Kim Il-sung’s Birthday Celebration – On April 15th every year, North Koreans celebrate the birthday of their founding leader Kim Il-sung with grand parades and fireworks displays.
- Arirang Festival – This is one of North Korea’s largest annual festivals featuring a mass gymnastics performance by thousands of performers showcasing synchronized dance moves and acrobatics.
- Chongmyo Festival – A traditional Korean ritual held every year at Chongmyo Shrine to honor ancestors and pay respects to the royal family.
- Taekwondo Championships – As a popular martial art form in North Korea, Taekwondo championships are held annually where athletes from different regions compete against each other.
Please note that these events may not be currently taking place due to various reasons such as COVID-19 restrictions or political tensions between countries.
Cuisine
- Ryonggang Hotpot Restaurant
- Chongryon Restaurant
- Okryugwan Restaurant
- Pubyokangsaeng Restaurant
- Moranbong Restaurant