South Pyongan Province
South Pyongan Province (Korean: 평안남도) is a key administrative division located in the Kwanso region of North Korea. Established in 1896 after the southern half of the former Pyongan Province was split, it remained a province of Korea until 1945, subsequently becoming part of North Korea. Today, it serves as a vital hub of governance and population, with its capital located in the city of Pyongsong.
Key Facts
- Capital: Pyongsong
- Total Area: 12,330 km² (4,760 sq mi)
- Population: 4,051,696 (as of 2008)
- Population Density: 328.6/km² (851.1/sq mi)
- Time Zone: UTC+9 (Pyongyang Time)
- Dialect: P'yŏngan
Geography and Borders
The province is strategically positioned with diverse borders. To the north, it is bounded by North Pyongan and Chagang Provinces. To the east and southeast, it shares borders with South Hamgyong and Kangwon Provinces. Its southern boundaries meet North Hwanghae Province and the capital city of Pyongyang. To the west, the province opens up to the Yellow Sea and Korea Bay.
Administrative Structure
South Pyongan is organized into a complex hierarchy of administrative divisions to manage its population and land. This includes one special city (tŭkpyŏlsi), five cities (si), 16 counties (kun), and three districts (comprising one ku and two chigu).
Cities
The province contains several urban centers, each established at different points in the 20th century:
- Nampo Special City: Created in 2010.
- Pyongsong: The provincial capital, established in December 1969.
- Anju: Established in August 1987.
- Kaechon: Established in August 1990.
- Sunchon-si: Established in October 1983.
- Tokchon: Established in June 1986.
Counties and Districts
The rural and semi-rural areas are divided into 16 counties, including Chungsan, Hoechang, Maengsan, Mundok, Nyongwon, Onchon, Pukchang, Pyongwon, Ryonggang, Sinyang, Songchon, Sukchon, Taehung, Taedong, Unsan, and Yangdok. Additionally, the province manages three districts: Chongnam, Tukchang, and Ungok.
It is important to note that administrative boundaries have shifted over time. In 2004, the counties of Chollima-guyok, Kangso-guyok, Ryonggang, and Taean-guyok-gun were merged into Nampo. Later, in 2010, Onchon County was also merged into the Nampo administration.
Regional Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | North Korea |
| Capital | Pyongsong |
| Area | 12,330 km² |
| Population (2008) | 4,051,696 |
| Government Leaders | Lee Gyeong-cheol (Party Committee Chief Secretary), Ri Song Pom (People's Committee Chairman) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was South Pyongan Province formed?
The province was formed in 1896 from the southern portion of the former Pyongan Province.
What is the capital of South Pyongan?
The capital of the province is Pyongsong, which was established in December 1969.
Which bodies of water border the province to the west?
The province is bordered to the west by the Yellow Sea and Korea Bay.
What is the population density of the region?
Based on 2008 data, the population density is 328.6 people per square kilometer (851.1 per square mile).
How has Nampo's status changed recently?
Nampo became a Special City in 2010 and has absorbed several former counties, including Chollima-guyok, Kangso-guyok, Ryonggang, Taean-guyok-gun, and Onchon County.