Komdok Zinc Mine

The Komdok Zinc Mine, also known as Kumgol, is located in South Hamgyong Province and is considered one of the world's largest deposits of lead and zinc. The mine is situated in a mountainous region and spans a vast area with numerous shafts and tunnels. It forms the heart of North Korea's non-ferrous metallurgy, supplying raw materials for several domestic smelters as well as for export. Extraction is carried out primarily through underground mining, with limited open-pit operations, utilizing modern transport systems and processing plants. In recent years, massive efforts have been made to improve the living and working conditions of the miners by constructing new housing complexes in the so-called Kumgol region. The mine is a central component of the state economic plan and is frequently visited by the state leadership to emphasize the importance of raw material self-sufficiency. Despite the challenging geographical conditions, the facility remains a productive cornerstone of the national economy.

Nearby cities

Chongjin

Chongjin is the third-largest city and a major center of steel production on the east coast.

Hoeryong

Hoeryong is located directly on the Tumen border with China and is famous as the birthplace of Kim Jong-suk, Kim Jong-il's mother.

Kimchaek

Kimchaek, formerly Songjin, was named after a North Korean general and is an important port on the east coast.

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Mount Chilbo

The 'Mountain of Seven Treasures' impresses with its unique coastal rocks and traditional hospitality.

Tanchon

Tanchon is a major mining city in the east of the country, known for its massive magnesite deposits.

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Sinpho

Sinpho is a coastal city on the Sea of Japan and is considered the heart of the North Korean submarine industry.

Hyesan

Hyesan is located on the Yalu River in the far north, known for freezing winters and the timber industry.

Nature

East Korea Bay East Coast

A large bight on the east coast, including the cities of Hamhung and Wonsan, featuring deeper waters and sandy beaches.

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Sapho Lake

Another coastal lagoon near Hamhung that is an important bird habitat.

More places

Port of Tanchon

An important port on the east coast, serving to export magnesite and other minerals from the nearby Tanchon mines.

Hungnam Fertilizer Complex

A massive industrial complex in Hungnam, vital for the production of fertilizers for the country's agriculture.

February 8 Vinalon Complex

Another major Vinalon production complex located near Hamhung, named for the founding day of the Korean People's Army.

Nandai River Valley

The valley formed by the Nandai River as it flows through Hamhung to the Sea of Japan.

Majon Beach Resort

A beach resort near Hamhung with a sandy beach and bathing facilities, popular with locals.

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Ryongsong Machine Complex

A large machine plant in Hamhung that produces custom-made heavy machinery and industrial equipment.

Kaema Plateau

A large, high-altitude plateau in the north of North Korea, often called the 'Roof of Korea'.

Ohyon-ri Larch Forest

A protected area in Ryanggang Province, known for its extensive and ancient larch forests.