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Wiwon Power Plant

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

energy

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The Wiwon Power Plant is a significant hydroelectric facility located on the Amnok River (Yalu), forming part of the border between North Korea and the People's Republic of China. This power station was developed as a joint venture between the two nations to harness the vast hydraulic potential of the river for regional industrial growth. Construction of the dam and generator units began in 1978, with the facility reaching full operational status in 1990. It has an installed capacity of approximately 390 megawatts, making it a vital component of the energy grid in North Korea's Chagang Province. The geographical placement utilizes the natural flow of the river to drive large-scale turbines, providing a steady source of renewable electricity. Beyond power generation, the reservoir created by the dam assists in flood control and irrigation for local agricultural sectors. The plant stands as a prominent symbol of bilateral economic cooperation and the modernization of the country's heavy industrial infrastructure.

Location: North Korea
Nearby: Manpo (27 km)

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-13	-9	-2	6	13	19	22	21	16	8	-2	-11
Rain mm	8	17	24	49	76	105	233	202	79	47	39	14

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Wiwon Power Plant is a substantial hydroelectric facility built on the strategic Yalu River, symbolizing a critical cross-border energy partnership. Operating jointly with China as part of a grand cascade of dams, it plays a vital role in generating electricity for regional industrial and domestic needs.

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Visiting

Given its status as critical national infrastructure and a sensitive border facility, public access to the power plant's interior, the dam structure, and the operational zones is strictly prohibited. There are typically no provisions for civilian tourism or casual visits anywhere near the restricted perimeter.

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Where to view it

While getting close is impossible, glimpses of the sprawling reservoir system and the colossal concrete dam structure can sometimes be seen from authorized, elevated vantage points on the Chinese side of the Yalu River. However, observing such facilities always requires caution and strict adherence to local regulations.

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Local products

Due to the high-security nature of the border region surrounding the dam, there are no commercial tourist markets or vendors selling local products nearby. Travelers on authorized regional tours would typically acquire souvenirs and regional specialties in designated urban centers far from the facility.

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Active season

The hydroelectric power generation continues unrelentingly twenty-four hours a day, all year round, driven by the powerful flow of the Yalu River. The water levels in the reservoir, and consequently the visual impact of the dam, typically peak following the intense summer monsoon rains.

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Nearby

For those viewing the wider Yalu River landscape from permitted areas, the experience is generally part of a meticulously organized historical and geographical border tour. Such permitted excursions might also encompass nearby historical revolutionary sites or officially designated scenic spots along the riverbanks.

Geography

Coordinates

41.20000, 126.10000

Facts

The plant is located on the Amnok River on the China border.
Construction of the hydroelectric project started in 1978.
The facility became fully operational in the year 1990.
The total installed capacity is approximately 390 MW.
It was developed as a joint venture with PR China.
The power plant is situated in the Chagang Province.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Manpo27 km · NWExplore →

Jangja River52 km · NEExplore →

Kanggye56 km · NExplore →

Changja River Fish Farm65 km · NEExplore →

Huichon70 km · EExplore →

Pohyon Temple79 km · EExplore →

International Friendship Exhibition80 km · EExplore →

Ryongnim Virgin Forest81 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Wiwon Power Plant (1)

Capital Cities and Tombs of the Ancient Koguryo Kingdom🏺 historical

This UNESCO World Heritage site of the ancient Koguryo dynasty impresses with remarkably preserved burial mounds and colorful tomb murals.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Wiwon Power Plant?

It is a large dam on the Yalu River, jointly used by North Korea and China for power generation.

Where exactly is the power plant located?

It is located on the border between Wiwon County (North Korea) and Jilin Province (China).

Can you visit the dam?

The area is a highly sensitive border zone; viewing is mostly possible from a distance from the Chinese side.

When was it built?

Construction began in the late 1970s, and the plant was commissioned in the 1980s.

How is the electricity distributed?

The generated energy is divided between the two countries according to contractual agreements.

Wiwon Power Plant: where is it located?

Wiwon Power Plant is located in North Korea.

Wiwon Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?