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POSCO Pohang Steel Works
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Industrial site
The POSCO Pohang Steel Works is one of the world's largest and most efficient integrated steel mills and a fundamental pillar of South Korea's industrialization. The facility broke ground in 1970 under the leadership of Park Tae-joon, at a time when Korea possessed almost no heavy industrial capacity. Geographically, the works are situated on a massive reclaimed site along the coast of Pohang, allowing for direct raw material imports and finished product exports via its own harbor. Economically, POSCO served as the engine for the success of Korea's automotive, shipbuilding, and construction industries by providing high-quality, affordable steel. Technologically, the plant pioneered the FINEX process, an environmentally friendly iron-making method that bypasses traditional blast furnaces. Today, Pohang Steel Works stands as a symbol of the 'Miracle on the Han River' and continues to set global benchmarks for productivity and sustainable steel production. The complex houses multiple blast furnaces and rolling mills operating 24/7 to supply global markets.
- Location: South Korea
- Top sights: Space Walk · Dogu Beach · POSCO History Museum
- Nearby: Pohang (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 3 | 7 | 12 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 25 | 21 | 16 | 10 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 36 | 45 | 61 | 95 | 95 | 126 | 226 | 192 | 158 | 73 | 46 | 34 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The POSCO steel mill in Pohang is one of the largest and most technologically advanced steel mills in the world. It significantly drives South Korea's industrial development and supplies international markets.
Visiting
The plant grounds are not open to the public for security reasons. However, there is a visitor center that features guided tours for groups by appointment.
Where to view it
From the nearby Yeongilman hill, there is a spectacular view of the massive steelworks and port facilities. The illuminated plant at night is also impressive from the coastal road.
Local products
The plant primarily produces steel plates, coils, and sheets for the construction, automotive, and shipbuilding industries. Visitors can see samples of different steel types in the attached exhibition hall.
Active season
Steel production runs 24/7, 365 days a year without interruption. The blast furnaces are shut down only every few years for maintenance.
Nearby
A visit to the steelworks can be combined with exploring the coastal city of Pohang, known for its beaches and fish markets. The nearby Gyeongju National Park also provides cultural attractions.
Geography
Facts
- POSCO was founded in 1968 and its first blast furnace in Pohang began operations in 1973.
- The Pohang Steel Works has an annual production capacity of approximately 16.2 million tons of steel.
- The facility was the first in the world to commercialize the FINEX iron-making technology.
- The plant site covers 2,200 acres (approx. 9 square kilometers) of reclaimed land in Pohang.
- POSCO has been ranked as the world's most competitive steelmaker for 13 consecutive years.
- The complex includes five blast furnaces, including some of the largest in the global steel industry.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town POSCO Pohang Steel Works (14)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is POSCO in Pohang?
One of the world's leading integrated steel mills.
Can you visit the steelworks?
Yes, POSCO has factory tours for visitors (reservation required).
What is Park1538?
A modern cultural and exhibition space by POSCO open to the public.
What is the importance of POSCO for Korea?
It was crucial for the industrial development and economic growth of the country.
Is there a museum?
Yes, the POSCO Museum showcases the history of steelmaking.
POSCO Pohang Steel Works: where is it located?
POSCO Pohang Steel Works is located in South Korea.
POSCO Pohang Steel Works: what is there to see?
Highlights include Space Walk, Dogu Beach, POSCO History Museum.
POSCO Pohang Steel Works: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
POSCO Pohang Steel Works: why is it worth visiting?
The POSCO Pohang Steel Works is one of the world's largest and most efficient integrated steel mills and a fundamental pillar of South Korea's industrialization.
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