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Port of Tanchon

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Port
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Port of Tanchon (North Korea)

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The Port of Tanchon is located on the east coast of North Korea in South Hamgyong Province and is a specialized deep-water port primarily used for the export of mineral resources. Tanchon is regarded as the center of North Korean mining, particularly for magnesite and zinc, making the port a central logistical interface. In 2012, an extensive modernization project was completed to significantly increase the handling capacity for ores and coal. The port facility features specialized loading stations directly connected to the nearby mines in the Komdok region. Besides raw material exports, the port serves to supply regional industry with imported goods. Its geographical location on the Sea of Japan allows direct access to international shipping routes, making it a strategic economic asset for the country's foreign exchange earnings. The infrastructure expansion also included the construction of new breakwaters and the deepening of port basins for larger cargo ships.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-4181419222217113-5
Rain mm11151937656817314582383515

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The Port of Tanchon is an important port on North Korea's east coast, enabling the export of magnesite and other minerals from the nearby Tanchon mines. It plays a central role in the region's economy and the country's foreign trade.
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Visiting
The port is militarily secured and generally not accessible to foreign visitors. Port facilities can be viewed from surrounding hills or from the sea at a distance, as far as security regulations permit.
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Where to view it
The hills north of Tanchon offer a good view of the port and coastline. From the road along the coast, the cranes and warehouses of the port are recognizable as part of the city skyline.
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Local products
Magnesite and other minerals are mined in the region but not sold directly to travelers. In Tanchon's markets, typical North Korean goods such as kimchi, rice, and local textiles are available, reflecting everyday life.
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Active season
Port operations are active year-round, with shipping most intense during the warmer months from April to October. During winter months, activity may decrease slightly due to ice or strong winds.
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Nearby
A visit to the port can be combined with exploring the city of Tanchon, offering mining infrastructure and local sights. The nearby Taebaek Mountains invite hiking, if access is permitted.

Geography

Coordinates
40.45000, 128.92000

Facts

  • A major modernization project was completed in 2012.
  • Main transshipment point for magnesite ore from Tanchon mines.
  • Features berths for ships up to 10,000 tons.
  • Strategic hub for trade in the Sea of Japan.
  • Direct railway connection to the Komdok mining complex.
  • Most important export port for zinc concentrate in North Korea.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

TanchonTanchon1 km · SWExplore →
KimchaekKimchaek35 km · NWExplore →
Kim Chaek Iron and Steel WorksKim Chaek Iron and Steel Works35 km · NWExplore →
Komdok Zinc MineKomdok Zinc Mine37 km · SExplore →
Mantap-sanMantap-san65 km · NWExplore →
Kaema PlateauKaema Plateau79 km · SWExplore →
Mount ChilboMount Chilbo85 km · NWExplore →
Ohyon-ri Larch ForestOhyon-ri Larch Forest86 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Port of Tanchon (2)

Tanchon📍 landmark

City in South Hamgyong Province, North Korea. It is a mining and industrial center.

Tanchon Chongnyon station📍 landmark

Railway station in Tanchon, located on a rail line. It handles passenger and freight traffic for the city.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the main function of the Tanchon port?
It primarily serves the export of ores and minerals, especially magnesite and zinc from the region.
Can tourists visit the port?
The port is a restricted military area and is usually not accessible to foreign tourists.
What is the city of Tanchon known for?
Tanchon is considered the mining capital of North Korea, with vast deposits of mineral resources.
What is the location of the port?
It is located on the east coast of North Korea on the Sea of Japan, in Hamgyong-namdo Province.
What infrastructure is available there?
There are specialized facilities for the bulk handling of mining products.
Port of Tanchon: where is it located?
Port of Tanchon is located in North Korea.
Port of Tanchon: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tanchon, Tanchon Chongnyon station.
Port of Tanchon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Port of Tanchon: why is it worth visiting?
The Port of Tanchon is located on the east coast of North Korea in South Hamgyong Province and is a specialized deep-water port primarily used for the export of mineral resources.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Asia
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Nearby cities

Chongjin — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
Chongjin
Chongjin is the third-largest city and a major center of steel production on the east coast.
Hoeryong — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
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 — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
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 — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
Tanchon
Tanchon is a major mining city in the east of the country, known for its massive magnesite deposits.

Nature

East Korea Bay East Coast — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
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

Komdok Zinc Mine — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
Komdok Zinc Mine
Part of the Komdok Mining Complex, one of the largest producers of lead and zinc in Asia.
Hungnam Fertilizer Complex — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
Hungnam Fertilizer Complex
A massive industrial complex in Hungnam, vital for the production of fertilizers for the country's agriculture.
February 8 Vinalon Complex — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
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 — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
Nandai River Valley
The valley formed by the Nandai River as it flows through Hamhung to the Sea of Japan.
Majon Beach Resort — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
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.
Kim Chaek Iron and Steel Works — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
Kim Chaek Iron and Steel Works
Another major steelworks, located in the city of Kimchaek.
Mantap-san — Port of Tanchon (North Korea)
Mantap-san
A mountain in North Hamgyong Province, known as the location of the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Site.