List of cities in North Korea facts for kids

North Korea has many important cities. Some of these cities have a special status, almost like they are their own provinces. This means they are managed directly by the central government.

The biggest city and capital of North Korea is Pyongyang. It is called a chikhalsi, which means "capital city." There are also three other cities that are called t'ŭkpyŏlsi, or "special cities." These cities are also very important. Other cities are just called si (city) and are part of a province, just like counties.

What Makes North Korean Cities Special?

North Korea organizes its cities into different types. This system helps the government manage them. Each type has a different level of importance and how it is governed.

Different Types of Cities Explained

• Chikhalsi (Capital City): There is only one of these, and that is Pyongyang. It's the most important city in the country.
• T'ŭkpyŏlsi (Special City): These cities are also very important. They are managed directly by the government, not by a province. Currently, there are three special cities: Kaesong, Nampo, and Rason.
• Si (City): Most other cities are called si. They are part of a province, just like smaller towns or counties.

Some cities have changed their status over time. For example, Rason was once part of a province. But it was made a special city again in 2010. This was done to help attract foreign businesses and investments.

Important Cities of North Korea

Let's look at some of the most well-known cities in North Korea. The population numbers below are from the 2008 North Korean census.

Pyongyang: The Nation's Capital

Pyongyang is the largest city in North Korea. It is the capital and has a population of over 3.2 million people. Pyongyang was officially founded as its current status in September 1946. It is the center of government, culture, and economy.

Other Major Cities and Their Roles

• Hamhung: This is a very large city in South Hamgyong Province. It has over 768,000 people. Hamhung is an important industrial center.
• Chongjin: Located in North Hamgyong Province, Chongjin is home to over 667,000 people. It is a major port city and industrial hub in the northeast.
• Nampo: As a special city, Nampo is a significant port on the west coast. It has a population of over 366,000 people. Nampo became a special city in February 2011.
• Wonsan: This city in Kangwon has over 363,000 people. Wonsan is a port city and a popular tourist destination.
• Sinuiju: Located in North Pyongan Province, Sinuiju has over 359,000 residents. It is an important border city with China.
• Tanchon: In South Hamgyong Province, Tanchon has a population of over 345,000. It is known for its mining industry.
• Kaechon: This city in South Pyongan Province has over 319,000 people. It was officially made a city in August 1990.
• Sariwon: Located in North Hwanghae Province, Sariwon has over 307,000 people. It is an important agricultural and industrial center.
• Kaesong: This special city has a population of over 308,000. Kaesong is close to the border with South Korea. It is known for its history and was once the capital of an ancient Korean kingdom. It became a special city in February 2019.
• Rason: Another special city, Rason has about 196,000 people. It was promoted to a special city in January 2010 to help with foreign trade.

See also

• Administrative divisions of North Korea
• Special cities of North Korea
• List of cities in South Korea
• Geography of North Korea