Pyongyang - definition of Pyongyang by The Free Dictionary Pyongyang - definition of Pyongyang by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Thesaurus , Encyclopedia , Wikipedia . Pyong·yang (pyŭng′yäng′, -yăng′, pyông′-) The capital and largest city of North Korea, in the southwest-central part of the country. It was an important cultural center and Chinese colony after 108 bc, later fell to the Japanese, and became capital of North Korea in 1948. Pyongyang P'yŏng-yang n (Placename) the capital of North Korea, in the southwest on the Taedong River: industrial centre; university (1946). Pop: 3 284 000 (2005 est) Pyong•yang the capital of North Korea, in the SW part. 2,639,448. ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend: Noun 1. Pyongyang - capital of North Korea and an industrial center; "Pyongyang is Korea's oldest city but little of its history has been preserved" D.P.R.K.

, Democratic People's Republic of Korea , DPRK , North Korea - a communist country in the northern half of the Korean Peninsula; established in 1948 Translations Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us , add a link to this page, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content . Link to this page: Wonsan References in periodicals archive ? Pyongyang has carried out a series of rocket and short-range missile launches in recent weeks which have prompted stern reactions from South Korea and the United States. world news bulletin: S Korea to inspect North's fuel rods Feinstein was one of the key Clinton State Department officials who a decade earlier had set up the infamous "Agreed Framework" (brokered by former president Jimmy Carter) to provide the Communist Pyongyang regime with light-water nuclear reactors, oil, cash and food--in exchange for Kim Jong Il's promise to cease its nuclear weapons program. P'yongyang | national capital, North Korea | Britannica.com national capital, North Korea Choi Hong Hi P’yŏngyang, province-level municipality and capital of North Korea .

It is located in the west-central part of the country, on the Taedong River about 30 miles (48 km) inland from Korea Bay of the Yellow Sea . The city site occupies a level area on both sides of the river, and the built-up area spreads northward and eastward toward low mountains. P’yŏngyang is reputed to be the oldest city in Korea. Pop. (2008) city (urban area), 2,581,076; municipality, 3,255,288. The skyline of Pyongyang, North Korea. Ron McMillan/Gamma Liaison History The ancient capital of the legendary Tangun dynasty (2333 bce) was located on the site where, according to legend , the modern city of P’yŏngyang was founded in 1122 bce. The city’s recorded history began in 108 bce with the establishment of a Chinese trading colony near P’yŏngyang, and the city was subsequently fortified. In 427 ce P’yŏngyang became the capital of the Koguryŏ kingdom, but in 668 it was captured by Chinese invaders.

Later the kings of the Koryŏ dynasty (918–1392) made P’yŏngyang their secondary capital. The city fell to the Japanese in 1592 and was devastated by the Manchu in the early 17th century. The successive invasions left their mark on the Koreans, who became suspicious of all foreigners. When Korea finally opened its doors to foreigners in the 16th century, P’yŏngyang became the base of an intensive campaign to bring Christianity to Korea. More than 100 churches were built in the city, which in the 1880s was reputed to have more Protestant missionaries than any other city in Asia. During the Sino-Japanese War (1894–95), much of P’yŏngyang was destroyed. Plague followed war, and in 1895 P’yŏngyang was left a virtually deserted and ruined city. During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910–45), P’yŏngyang was built up as an industrial centre. During the Korean War (1950–53) numerous air raids devastated P’yŏngyang.

It was captured by United Nations forces in 1950 but subsequently was lost when Chinese communist forces entered the war. After 1953 the city was rebuilt with Soviet and Chinese assistance. The contemporary city Ch’ŏngjin A huge bronze statue of Ch’ŏllima, a winged horse of Korean legend , atop a high pedestal dominates the skyline of P’yŏngyang and symbolizes to the residents the economic progress made after the end of the Korean War. Sections of the inner and northern walls and Hyŏnmu Gate are still standing, and several temples and pavilions that date from the Koguryŏ kingdom have been reconstructed in the original architectural style. Modern landmarks include the Grand Theatre; the Okryu Hall, which contains a large banquet hall for official functions and recreation facilities for the workers; and Kim Il-sung Stadium. Beneath Moran Hill, the city’s main recreational centre, is a huge underground theatre. The reputed grave of the Chinese sage Kija (1122 bce), legendary founder of the city, is north of the city. The industrial infrastructure in and around P’yŏngyang is the most highly developed in the country.

It was the first to emerge in North Korea in terms of modern industry, and its development owes much to bountiful and available natural resources such as coal, iron, and limestone as well as the convenient ground and waterborne transportation systems. Heavy and light industries in P’yŏngyang’s manufacturing base have grown in parallel, the core activity being the mechanical industry. The city also produces such heavy manufactures as cement, munitions and weaponry, and industrial ceramics. Light industries developed in the capital region include textiles and, to a lesser extent, footwear, food, and other commodities. The government operates the major commercial and financial institutions. Farming takes place on the outskirts of the city, and activity is concentrated on growing subsidiary crops for city workers; special emphasis is placed on the production and supply of fresh produce. Also grown are rice, corn (maize), and soybeans, but their quantities are not enough to meet the grain needs for P’yŏngyang. Efforts are being made throughout the capital region to achieve self-sufficiency in meat production. Chicken, hogs, and other livestock are raised in high-density facilities.

Britannica Stories Pyongyang – Travel guide at Wikivoyage By plane[ edit ] 39.2008 125.6766 1 Sunan International Airport ( IATA : FNJ) is 24 km north of Pyongyang. It handles a relatively small number of passengers for a capital airport, and as of 2015 has scheduled services to Beijing , Shanghai , Shenyang , Kuala Lumpur , Bangkok and Vladivostok . International flights use a new terminal opened in summer of 2015, featuring more seating, an expanded duty-free store, and additional amenities. The new terminal imposes a $1 parking fee when exiting the lot. Air China operates a round trip to Beijing on Mondays and Fridays, with an additional scheduled flight on Wednesdays in the summer. These flights can be purchased on-line in advance. Air Koryo operates flights Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Both operators leave Pyongyang at 09:00 and return to Pyongyang from Beijing at 13:00 (Oct 2013).

If you are in a position to buy tickets within the country, they are on sale in the Youth Hotel's Air China office, which is situated about 10 km north-east of the city. They provide a free 30 kg baggage allowance. Tickets may also be purchased online through travel agents who typically interact with either the Beijing or Berlin Air Koryo offices. Expect to pay USD300-320 for a one-way ticket to Beijing. By train[ edit ] There are two international train services to Pyongyang, from Beijing (via Dandong and Sinuiju ) and Moscow (via Zabaikalsk , Dandong and Sinuiju ). Notice that western foreigners in most cases will be denied to enter North Korea using the Moscow train service. Also, since 2013, US citizens have not been allowed on trains in the country except for those specially chartered by tour companies. For trains arriving at 39.0048 125.7366 2 Pyongyang station (평양역), foreigners will have to exit via the side door at the far end of the station from the gates.

Don't join the scrum with the Koreans, as you won't be allowed to leave via the same door. If you have transported anything via freight on the train, you'll have to go back the next day to pick it up. The (not very busy) customs office is around the back of the building, and is shut between 12:00 and 14:00. There are no charges for collecting customs-cleared goods, and the bureaucracy is fairly simple, especially compared to the chaos of the Beijing railway station. Get around[ edit ] One of the typical Tatra trams in Pyongyang, North Korea Tourists to North Korea will need to be accompanied by an accredited guide or guides, who will arrange where you can visit and how you will get there. However, personal visitors of foreign residents in Pyongyang are free to go around by themselves, unless explicitly told not to by Korean authorities. This can happen, but is not always the case. Foreign residents cannot use buses. By metro[ edit ] The metro system has two routes. However, if on a package tour, your short trip on the metro will be organised in advance. Only visitors of foreign residents may use the entire metro.

Despite being old, the trains run quite efficiently, and are phenomenally cheap at 5 won per journey irrespective of distance. The biggest drawback to this form of transport is that the metro is only on the west side of the river, while Munsu dong — where all foreign residents live — is on the east side. By taxi[ edit ] Taxis can be taken, but drivers are wary of accepting foreigners. One exception might be the Koryo Hotel, near the railway station. Expect the driver to check with the hotel that he is allowed to take you. Generally around €5 will cover a medium distance one way journey, although the rate for foreigners is USD1/km before 18:30 and USD2/km in the evening. See[ edit ] Pyongyang Film Studios 39.04465 125.75316 1 Arch of Triumph. The arch was designed to commemorate Korean resistance to Japan between 1925 and 1945 and eventual liberation from Japanese rule. The arch is modeled on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. At 60 m high and 50 m wide it is the biggest victory arch in the world.

39.04962 125.77520 2 Arirang Mass Games (Arirang Festival). A mass gymnastics and artistic performance. The performance runs through parts of August and September. With over 100,000 performers this is, by the number of participants, the greatest show on earth. 39.01398 125.65843 3 Children's Palace. Nearly every city has its own Children's Palace, with Pyongyang having the largest. After classes in the morning, selected (gifted) students spend the afternoon at the palatial Children's Palace to practice their art or other special skills. Children choose their area of specialisation in cooperation with teachers once they're old enough to attend (around 11) and continue with that skill every day until they graduate or they complete the area of study. Areas include: ballet, rhythmic dance, gymnastics, computer programming, singing, musical instruments, chess, volleyball, basketball, embroidery and calligraphy. 39.03432 125.752771 4 Chollima Statue.

At the top of Mansu Hill is a statue of a man riding Chollima, a winged horse, representing the economic development of Korea. Grand Monument. This is a huge bronze statue of Kim Il Sung, who is still officially president of the DPRK, despite having been dead for nearly 20 years. 39.01758 125.76356 5 Juche Tower. A 170 m tall monument is dedicated to the Juche philosophy of Kim Il Sung. Don't miss the trip to the top, which costs €5 and offers a great view of the city (though, if you're staying at the Yanggakdo, the view from a top floor is similar and free). 39.04602 125.75487 6 Kaeson Funfair (Near the Arch of Triumph). This small amusement park has a handful of new rides. You and your guides can't just wander around as you'll need a guide from the park to take you to each ride, but you will be put at the front of the queue for each one.

The guide will keep track of the rides you go on and then you pay according to how many rides you went on at the end of your visit. 39.03058 125.76806 7 Kimilsungia-Kimjungilia Flower Exhibition Centre. This centre houses two floors worth of flowers named after Kim Jong Il and Kim Il Sung. 39.04302 125.73668 8 Korean War Museum (Victorious Fatherland Liberation Museum). The War Museum moved to a new building (next to the previous museum) in 2013. Large statues and captured US planes, tanks, and other weapons are in front of the main building. The museum contains a dioramas and historical artefacts from the war, paintings of the leaders, and serves as a memorial to national war heroes. Expect to spend 2-3 hours to visit the museum. 39.03161 125.75369 9 Mansudae. 20 m high bronze statue of Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il.

During the centennial celebration of Kim Il-Sung's birthday, a statue of Kim Jong-Il was added. This colossal display will most likely be the first thing you visit. Be aware that the locals expect visitors to this place to show respect to the monument. Your tour group will most likely lay flowers on the statue pedestal which are also available on-site for €3-10. Formal dress is expected, though not strictly required. Grand People's Study House 39.04239 125.77977 10 Munsu Water Park, East Pyongyang. Opened in October 2013, this is a large water park complex with lots of water slides. Open to foreigners on Saturdays. €7 Indoors only, €10 Indoors and Outdoors. North Korean Film Studio. Where North Korean films are made, and see film sets based on Japan, Russia, China and South Korea. 39.02806 125.68585 11 Pyongyang Circus. Closer to an acrobatics show, the circus provides a variety of illusion and gymnastics acts. At one time trained bears were featured, but they appear to be absent recently.

A live orchestra is present, and the majority of the audience is local. ¥80. Pyongyang Metro. This is the deepest metro system in the world at over 110 m. There are large socialist realist murals in the platforms of the stations, with each station designed to embody a different ideal. A standard tourist visit for 2€ will ride from the origin Puhung station to the Arch of Triumph (6 stops) on the Chollima Line. Since 2015, it has been possible to ride the full extent of the subway for 20€, although disembarking at a couple stations remains restricted and the full tour takes several hours. 2-20€. (updated Mar 2016) 39.03652 125.73084 12 Ryugyong Hotel. This 105-storey building dominates the Pyongyang skyline with its 330 m height. Construction started in 1987, but came to a halt in 1992 during the country's economic crisis in the wake of the fall of the Soviet Union.

Construction by Egypt's Orascom Group resumed again in April 2008. It was scheduled for a partial opening in the summer of 2013, although recent information from a local guide was that it will open in "three to five years". 39.008 125.737 13 Stamp Shop (Next to the Koryo Hotel on Changwang St). Sells a huge variety of DPRK postage stamps, with designs ranging from Olympic sports to Korean food to DPRK history. You can also buy postcards and postcard stamps, although mailing fees are cheaper on the second floor of the Koryo Hotel. 39.039 125.741 14 USS Pueblo. The USS Pueblo is an American navel vessel captured by North Korea in 1968. Although her crew was eventually released, the ship has been kept as a museum in Pyongyang. It is still officially commissioned by the United States Navy and is its only vessel still listed as captured. The Pueblo is now part of the Korean War Museum, and is next to the main museum building.

39.028 125.775 15 Workers Party Monument. This Monument is about the Workers Party of Korea. The hammer, sickle and brush are standing for the workers, farmers and the intellectuals. The ring around these the symbols represents their unification. 0€. Do[ edit ] Normally, tourists in Pyongyang are restricted to guided tours. Personal visitors to foreign residents are usually free to wander around, though they may also be placed under the care of a guide. Pyongyang Marathon , May Day Stadium. The Pyongyang Marathon is a yearly event in April open to Americans and most other nationalities since 2014. There are 10 km, half and full marathon races. Although anyone can sign up, it has to be through an official tour operator, including UriTours , KoryoGroup , and Young Pioneer Tours . Roughly 1,000 foreigners were scheduled to run in 2016. USD $50-100. (updated Mar 2016) Swimming. Foreigners are allowed to use the main public swimming pool on Saturday mornings, and also the ice skating rink in winter.

Be safe and avoid accidents; medical aid may take a long time to arrive. 39.02562 125.76812 1 Bowling. Bowling is available at golden lanes for minimal cost. Buy[ edit ] Shopping options are limited. A few department stores exist but have very few things of interest to a visitor. Locals only shop from speciality stores selling groceries and other basic items. Arts and crafts and souvenirs can be purchased in places such as tourist sites and hotels. Some extremely sought-after North Korean souvenirs are metal lapel badges depicting the faces of one or more of the three Kims. They can be difficult for foreigners to acquire; it is often easier to buy them at home on eBay or similar auction sites. There have been reported cases of these badges being seized by customs at departure. There are several competing prepaid cards available around town, which reduce the hassle of carrying money and change. The most ubiquitous and oldest is from the Trade Bank (무역은행), and is available at the Pyongyang Shop in the Embassy district. Its balance is recorded at the hard-currency exchange rate.

More recently, Guangbok and some stores dealing in local currency have begun to offer a card from the Central Bank (중앙은행) with a balance of local won. The Ryugyong commercial bank also offers a card accepted by the Ryugyong shop. There are several government-run markets, selling a wide range of foods, as well as consumer goods such as shoes and DIY materials. The majority of these products are imported, but some local goods can be found as well. The prices for local products are extremely low by western standards, and the sellers are generally honest - although prices are negotiable. These markets are identifiable by their blue, hemispherical roofs. However, apart from Tonghil market, foreigners are generally treated with caution. Indeed, do not be surprised if you are gently, but firmly, escorted from the building. There is no harm in this, providing you comply. Tonghil market is perhaps the most interesting, as there are many relatively wealthy Koreans shopping there for items many other North Koreans are unable to afford. You need won to shop at these markets, which can be exchanged for hard currencies on the second floor. Photography is prohibited. In Tonghil, be aware that some theft does occur, although it is minimal.

The list of stores known to be open to foreigners consists of: 39.0217 125.7914 1 Pyongyang Store. The Pyongyang diplomatic store complex has fresh milk, a duty free section, and tailor services. (updated Oct 2015) 39.0279 125.7554 2 Haemaji. The Haemaji complex features a grocery store, bakery, coffee shop, and steak house. (updated Oct 2015) 39.0077 125.7383 3 CanGuang. The CanGuang complex near the Koryo hotel has a grocery store, cafe, and hotel. (updated Oct 2015) 39.0278 125.7358 4 Potonggang. The Potonggang complex is a 3 story department store selling food, home good, and small appliances. Local currency is used, and a currency exchange point is located across the street. (updated Oct 2015) 39.0339 125.6923 5 GwangBok.

Gwangbok is a 3 story shopping complex joint venture with a Chinese company. The top floor has a food court, and the second floor has locally-produced clothing. Local currency is used and can be exchanged on the first floor. (updated Oct 2015) 39.03099 125.73083 6 Ryugyong. The Ryugyong shopping complex has a grocery store, furniture store, and kitchen supplies. There's also a cafe in the complex, a hardware store next door, and an electronics store across the street. (updated Oct 2015) 38.9800 125.7329 7 Tongil Market. A bustling market with imported and local goods. One of the few places to buy fresh meat and produce, and with a bit of everything else. Prices on imported goods will not be significantly cheaper than at other stores, but one of the few places to shop alongside locals. Note: Tongil is not typically a permitted destination for short-term visitors. (updated Oct 2015) Eat[ edit ] Local residents generally eat at home, and as such the Pyongyang restaurant scene is lacking.

You will normally eat dinner at your hotel. There are a number of small diners in the city, but they are mostly aimed at local workers and have rather spartan fare—boiled corn, kimchi, some fish or squid, white rice. The legal situation surrounding these semi-private establishments is complicated, and foreigners are not advised to eat at them. There are, however, several restaurants well-suited for tourists. Chongryu (On the bank of the Pothong River). Designed in the shape of a river cruise boat. A good choice for those fond of traditional Korean food, as over 120 Korean dishes are available. 38.9782 125.7310 1 Dangogi Gukjib (Tongil St). The most famous place for those who have decided to try the Korean speciality of eating dog. Costs €30.

Banquet rooms at Haedanghwa Health Complex 39.02539 125.76822 2 Haedanghwa (해당화관), Okryu Taedong River Area 1 East (대동강구역 옥류1동), ☎ 678 3333NOCC. Teppanyaki-style restaurant with €30, €50 and €70 set meals. Considered one of the top restaurants in the country, the chefs have been trained in China. €30-70. 39.0173 125.7561 3 Mujigae Boat Restaurant (Kim Il Sung Square). A 2015 boat completed for the 70th anniversary of the workers party, the Rainbow boat has 8 different food options: A buffet, a traditional Korean restaurant, a revolving restaurant on the 3rd floor, an outside snack bar, a coffee shop, a karaoke bar, four booth areas with a continental menu, and a convenience shop. A fee of $1 or 5,000 won is charged upon boarding in addition to the price of food.

39.02874 125.75834 4 Okryu. On the bank of the Taedong River, Okryu was founded in 1960 and is one of the oldest restaurants in the country and one of the few with branches abroad. It is famous for its Pyongyang-style cold noodles. €3-6. Ryugyong Restaurant (An Sang Taek St). Specialises in beef dishes. Recommended for meat-lovers. 39.0133 125.7511 5 Haebangsan. Famous for ox rib soup. 5-10$. (updated Sep 2015) Drink[ edit ] There are very few bars and clubs, though North Korean beer is available at hotels. Some may also offer Chinese and other foreign beers, such as Heineken. The local draught beer is excellent, and costs from €0.50 to €1.40.

There are three main places, apart from restaurants and hotels, where foreign residents go to socialise; the old Diplomatic club, near the Juche tower by the river, the Friendship, inside the Munsu dong foreigners' compound, and the Random Access Club (RAC), run by the UN, also inside the foreigners' compound. Provided that transport (difficult) and permission (less difficult) is obtainable, all of these can be visited. The RAC Friday nights are legendary (not in an "Ibiza" way, though), although what passed for nightlife has dwindled as foreign aid organisations have left the country during 2009. 39.01786 125.76635 1 Taedonggang Brewery Restaurant. 7 types of Taedonggang beer are on tap (although only types 1, 2, 5 and 6 are generally available). The restaurant has a large projector typically showing Russian concerts, and brick walls that look out of place in the city. Fairly expensive for dinner, but recommended for drinks. The fries are recommended as a bar snack, although the locals prefer dried fish.

39.0127 125.7624 2 Diplomatic Club. In addition to a pool and restaurant, the upstairs of the diplomatic club has an extensive karaoke area, and a billiards room with a small bar. Lobby of the Koryo Hotel This will be arranged by your tour company. Budget[ edit ] 39.01345 125.75050 1 Heabangsan Hotel (Sungri St, Central District), ☎ +850 2 37037 . A five-storey building which is the cheapest option in Pyongyang. It has 83 rooms, but rarely available to foreigners. (updated Oct 2015) Morangbong Hotel (Morangbong Hill). 12 rooms and is Pyongyang's smallest hotel. It is the only hotel in Pyongyang with al fresco dining. Pyongyang Hotel (Sungri St, Central District, near Pyongyang Grand Theatre), ☎ +850 2 38161 . Class 2 hotel with 170 rooms. Open since 1961.

Taedonggang Hotel (Sungri St, Central District, beside the Taedonggang River), ☎ +850 2 38346 . 2nd class hotel that has been around since 1956. Mid-range[ edit ] Potongang Hotel, ☎ +850 2 381 2229 . First-class hotel situated next to the Potong River about 4 km from the city centre. It has 216 rooms equipped with air conditioning, refrigerator, telephone, and satellite TV. Facilities include restaurants, bar, souvenir shop and a beauty salon. Ryanggang Hotel (Chongchun St, Mangyongdae District, at the junction of the Taedonggang and Potonggang Rivers), ☎ +850 2 73825 . Opened in 1989, this first-class hotel has 317 rooms and a rotating restaurant on the roof. Sosan Hotel (Kwangbok St), ☎ +850 2 71191 . First-class option, recently renovated. Features a pool, bars, Internet, and cable TV.

38.9990 125.7517 2 Yanggakdo Hotel, ☎ +850 2 381 2134 . Opened 1995. It is on Yanggakdo Island, in the middle of the Taedong River. It is 47 storeys tall, has several restaurants (including a revolving restaurant on the top), and a casino in the basement where you can watch Chinese gamblers go wild. Also has a bowling alley, shoe repair shop, and massage service. Prices range from €70 for a third-class room on one of the lower floors, to €420 for a deluxe room high up. Meals are included. Splurge[ edit ] 39.0087 125.7366 3 Koryo Hotel (Changkwang St), ☎ +850 2 381 4397 . The most luxurious hotel in the city together with Yanggakdo Hotel. Has 45 floors and over 500 rooms.

Centrally located in the city centre near the train station, makes you less isolated than the Yanggakdo. Singles €175, doubles €290. Stay safe[ edit ] Pyongyang is a very safe city for foreigners who follow the rules. See the main article for safety information about North Korea. Connect[ edit ] The country code for North Korea is +850. Foreigners staying in Pyongyang can sign up with Koryolink mobile phone service. The setup fee for a SIM card and voice service will be either $80 or €80. Signing up for 3G data costs an additional €180. Fees for the mobile service are $8/month for voice and $14/month for data. The included data plan provides 50M of data. Note that the phone network available to foreigners does not interconnect with the network used by citizens. Hotels aimed at foreigners may be able to provide Internet access, although it should be requested in advance. If you do not have Internet access and need connection the easiest option is likely to schedule a visit to your embassy. Red Cross General Hospital of Korea. phone: +850 2 28291.

East-Pyongyang. Pyongyang First Aid Hospital. phone: +850 2 22758. Pyongyang Foreigners’ Hospital. phone: +850 2 22160. Kim Man Yu Hospital. phone: +850 2 28136. East-Pyongyang. Pyongyang Maternity Hospital. East-Pyongyang. (Showcase, opened in 1980 with 1,500 beds.) Go next[ edit ] Mural inside a Goguryeo tomb Mangyongdae, the purported birthplace of Kim Il Sung, is 12 km from central Pyongyang and a good day trip. A collection of huts said to be the Leader's first home is the main attraction. The suburb also features a revolutionary museum, a funfair and a revolutionary school for the children of the elite. The Revolutionary Martyrs' Cemetery, around 15 km north east of the city, is a good day out. You walk up 300 steps, through gardens with hidden speakers playing mournful music, to fairly identikit bronze busts set on marble plinths. Seriousness, of course, is mandatory.

Taking photos is fine, and on a clear day there are magnificent views over the city. At the foot of the hill there is a zoo and a park. One can visit both, at a small charge, although they are sometimes shut. As you approach, the metro terminus is on the right; it takes around 40 minutes to get back into town on the metro. In the zoo itself are a lot of tigers, dogs and chickens. The two Korean breeds of dog (the lighter coloured is the northern, the darker the southern one) are separated from one another by a steel fence and spend most of their lives barking at each other - quite an appropriate metaphor... Some of the tombs of the UNESCO World Heritage listing Complex of Goguryeo Tombs are located in the Taedong river basin outside Pyongyang. Panmunjom , the surreal truce village on the DMZ and demarcation line of North and South Korea, is an unforgettable historical site easily visited on a day trip from Pyongyang. This city travel guide to Pyongyang has guide status. It has a variety of good, quality information including hotels, restaurants, attractions and travel details. Please contribute and help us make it a star !

Pyongyang | Define Pyongyang at Dictionary.com Pyongyang [pyuhng-yahng, -yang, pyong-] /ˈpyʌŋˈyɑŋ, -ˈyæŋ, ˈpyɒŋ-/ Spell a city in and the capital of North Korea, in the SW part. North Korea noun 1. a country in E Asia: formed 1948 after the division of the former country of Korea at 38° N. 50,000 sq. mi. (129,500 sq. km). Capital: Pyongyang. Official name Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Related forms Examples from the Web for Pyongyang Expand Contemporary Examples If so, new elements in Pyongyang might be willing to deal with the United States on a reasonable basis. U.S. Should Make North Korea Pay for Sony Hack Gordon G. Chang December 17, 2014 A day before its U.S. report published, Pyongyang had another target: its southern neighbor. Kim Jong Un’s Kid Gloves Are Now Off Gordon G. Chang December 16, 2014 Sony is set to officially blame Pyongyang as early as Wednesday. British Dictionary definitions for Pyongyang Expand noun 1.

the capital of North Korea, in the southwest on the Taedong River: industrial centre; university (1946). Pop: 3 284 000 (2005 est) North Korea noun 1. a republic in NE Asia, on the Sea of Japan (East Sea) and the Yellow Sea: established in 1948 as a people's republic; mostly rugged and mountainous, with fertile lowlands in the west Language: Korean. Currency: won. Capital: Pyongyang. Pop: 24 720 407 (2013 est). Area: 122 313 sq km (47 225 sq miles) Official name Democratic People's Republic of Korea Korean name Chosŏn Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd.

1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Word Origin and History for Pyongyang Expand North Korean capital, from Korean p'yong "flat" + yang "land." Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper Pyongyang [(pyung-yahng, pyawng-yahng)] Capital of North Korea and largest city in the country, located in west-central North Korea. Note: Pyongyang is Korea's oldest city, but little remains from its three-thousand-year history, after successive devastations by Japan and in the Korean War . North Korea definition Republic on northern Korean Peninsula on east coast of Asia , bounded on the north by China , on the northeast by Russian Siberia , on the east by the Sea of Japan , on the south by South Korea , and on the west by the Yellow Sea and Korea Bay. Its capital and largest city is P'yongyang.

Note: A communist country that used to have close ties with the Soviet Union , North Korea, continues to maintain a close relationship with China. Note: It was established in 1948 after two occupation zones were set up in northern and southern Korea during World War II . Note: The Korean War began in 1950, when North Korean forces invaded South Korea . Supplied by the Soviets, and eventually joined by the Chinese, North Korea fought forces of South Korea and the United Nations . Note: Run by one most closed and repressive regimes on Earth, North Korea has suffered from food shortages and a deteriorating economy. The American Heritage® New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Democratic People's Republic of Korea_Ancient History Pyongyang Pyongyang Pyongyang is the replica of past, present and future of the country, which one can learn and experience the history, brilliant culture, wisdom, talents and gorgeous manners of the Korean people as well as the breathtaking city views. Pyongyang is the capital of the DPRK. It is the heart of the socialist Korea.

It is located in the middle of the northwestern part of the Korean peninsula. It is divided in 19 administrative districts and 4 counties with the population of over 2 million. The capital has been called as one of the "8 Scenic Wonders of Korea" for its splendid views. Clear River Taedong and its branches harmonizing with hills like Mangyong and Moran create a whole wonderland. It is the cradle of Korean nation and culture as well as the capital city of Kojoson (Ancient Korea) about 5 000 years ago and that of Koguryo, the powerful state of the Orient. It is blessed with Mangyongdae, native home of President Kim Il Sung and Kim Il Sung University where the revolutionary achievements of General Kim Jong II are associated. Pyongyang is richer in monumental structures including the Grand Monument on Mansu Hill and the Tower of Juche Idea. Where is North Korea? / Where is North Korea Located in The World? / North Korea Map - WorldAtlas.com What is the capital of North Korea?

Located in the continent of Asia , North Korea covers 120,408 square kilometers of land and 130 square kilometers of water, making it the 99th largest nation in the world with a total area of 120,538 square kilometers. North Korea became an independent state in 1948, after gaining its sovereignty from Japan. The population of North Korea is 24,589,122 (2012) and the nation has a density of 204 people per square kilometer. The currency of North Korea is the North Korean Won (KPW). As well, the people of North Korea are refered to as Korean. The dialing code for the country is 850 and the top level internet domain for Korean sites is .kp. North Korea shares land borders with 3 countries: Russia , South Korea , China . To learn more, visit our detailed North Korea section. Quick facts Capitals of North Korea | Article about Capitals of North Korea by The Free Dictionary Capitals of North Korea | Article about Capitals of North Korea by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Wikipedia .

Pyongyang (pēyŭng`yäng`), Chin. Pingyang, Jap. Heijo, city (1993 pop. 2,741,260), capital of North Korea, SW North Korea, on a high bluff above the Taedong River. It is a special city with the status of province. Pyongyang, located near large iron and coal deposits, is an industrial center; products include iron and steel, machinery, armaments, aircraft, textiles, sugar, rubber, ceramics, and various light manufactures. Korea's oldest city, Pyongyang was founded, according to legend, in 1122 B.C. by remnants of the Chinese Shang Shang or Yin, dynasty of China, which ruled, according to traditional dates, from c.1766 B.C. to c.1122 B.C. or, according to some modern scholars, from c.1523 B.C. to c.1027 B.C. ..... Click the link for more information. dynasty. Nearby is the reputed grave of the city's legendary founder, the Chinese scholar Ki-tze (Kija).

As Lolang, the city served as capital of the Choson kingdom (300–200 B.C.) and later became (108 B.C.) a Chinese colony and an important cultural center. It was again capital under the Koguryo (77 B.C.–A.D. 668) kingdom and served as an adjunct capital during the Koryo (10th–12th cent.) dynasty. Pyongyang fell c.1594 to the Japanese, who hoped to use it as a base for an invasion of China, but who then destroyed the city. Japanese invaders again devastated Pyongyang in 1894 and 1904. It became the capital of North Korea in 1948. Captured (1950) by UN forces during the Korean War, Pyongyang later fell to the North Koreans. After being ravaged in the war, the city was rebuilt along modern lines. Only six gates remain of Pyongyang's former great walls. Other landmarks include three tombs (1st cent. B.C.) with remarkable murals, several old Buddhist temples, and the Grand Theatre. Pyongyang is home to many museums, libraries, theatres, and universities.

Moran-bong Stadium plays an important part in the city's role as a show place for the nationalistic spectacles of the North Korean government. The 105-story Ryugyong Hotel (not yet opened) towers over the city's skyline. Pyongyang the capital and largest city of the People’s Democratic Republic of Korea and the country’s leading political, economic, and cultural center. Pyongyang has been designated a separate administrative unit under the jurisdiction of the central government. It is also the administrative center of Pyongyan-namdo Province. The city lies at an elevation of 300 m in a hilly area along the bank of the Taedong River, 89 km from the Yellow Sea. It has a moderate monsoonal climate, with an average annual temperature of 9.2°C. January temperatures average - 8.2°C and July temperatures, 24°C. The annual precipitation totals 922 mm. Pyongyang covers an area of 200 sq km, and its 1974 population, including suburbs, was approximately 1.5 million. Municipal government. The city’s governing body is the people’s assembly, popularly elected for a four-year term.

Below the municipal people’s assembly are ward and county people’s assemblies, elected for two-year terms. The executive organs of the people’s assemblies are people’s committees. Administrative committees are responsible for the day-to-day management of the various branches of the economy and culture. Attached to the Pyongyang administrative committee are the regional planning committee, the main board of local industry, the committee on agricultural management, the local building board, the main building board, the board of trade, and departments of health, education, and culture. Historical sketch. One of Korea’s oldest cities, Pyongyang was the capital of the Koguryo state from 427 to 668. Under the Koryo dynasty (918–1392) the city became the country’s western capital and was renamed Sogyon. For many centuries Pyongyang was an important trade center as well as a stronghold in the struggle against foreign invaders, who included the armies of the Chinese Sui and T’ang dynasties, Khitans, Mongols, Jurchens, Manchus, and Japanese.

After foreign powers had concluded unequal treaties with the Korean government in the second half of the 19th century, capitalists from Japan, Europe, and the USA came to Pyongyang, as well as other Korean cities, in search of concessions and commercial gain. In 1899, Pyongyang was opened to foreign trade. In the early 20th century a number of industrial enterprises, chiefly Japanese, were established here for the processing of agricultural raw materials. By 1942, Pyongyang’s population had grown to 388,000, as contrasted with 30,000 at the beginning of the century. The city became the center of the national liberation and labor movements. An armed uprising broke out in 1919 under the influence of the Great October Socialist Revolution in Russia, demonstrations were held (June 1926), and strikes occurred (the 1930 strike struggle). After Korea’s liberation from the domination of Japanese imperialism in 1945, Pyongyang became a base of operations for the democratic forces of the Korean people. In February 1946 the Provisional People’s Committee of North Korea was formed in the city.

The committee instituted agrarian reforms, nationalized the city’s industries and banks, and democratized political life, thereby abolishing the vestiges of the colonial regime and opening the way to socialism. With the proclamation of the People’s Democratic Republic of Korea in September 1948, Pyongyang became the center of the struggle for the peaceful unification of the country. In the war that lasted from 1950 to 1953 the city was heavily damaged. After the termination of military operations, the city was rebuilt and modernized through the efforts of the Korean people, assisted by the socialist countries. M. N. P AK Economy. The economic growth of Pyongyang has been facilitated by its advantageous geographic location in the heart of an agricultural region and at the crossroads of important transportation routes. In the years of people’s rule Pyongyang has become an industrial center with a diversified output. (In the past industry was dominated by light industry and food processing.) Machine building has developed especially rapidly; the leading products are precision, textile, and transportation machinery and measuring instruments. Electrical engineering, another growing industry, is represented by the Kim Jeong Thae Pyongyang Electric Locomotive Factory.

Meanwhile, the traditional branches have also been expanding, including textiles (the Pyongyang Textile Works, the country’s largest textile factory), food processing (the Yongseong Meat-packing Plant), and chemicals. Nearby coal deposits provide fuel for the city’s steam power plant. Together with its nearby satellite cities, Pyongyang forms a major industrial region that includes the Kangson Steel Works, the nonferrous metallurgy plant in Nampo, the Keumseong Tractor Plant, the Taean Electrical Machinery Plant, and the country’s largest cement plant and brickyard. Several railroads and highways pass through Pyongyang, connecting the northern, southern, western, and eastern parts of the country, as well as the coasts of the Yellow and Japan seas. The stretch between Pyongyang and Sinuiju was electrified in 1964. Since 1954 there has been direct railroad service between Pyongyang, Peking, and Moscow. Some 23 km northwest of Pyongyang is the Sunan international airport. The Taedong River is navigable along stretches, and Nampo serves as Pyongyang’s port on the Yellow Sea. The city’s first subway line was put into operation in 1973. N. P.

S EMENOVA City planning and architecture. On the right bank of the Tae-dong lies the city’s old section, once surrounded by a fortress wall. Remains of the old fortifications include the eastern gate, called Taedongmun (third century, rebuilt in the 17th century and restored during the 1950’s), the western gate, known as Po-tongmun (tenth century, rebuilt in the 15th century and restored during the 1950’s), and an observation tower, now the Yeonggwanjeon Pavilion (built in 1111, rebuilt in the 17th century and restored during the 1950’s). Large modern administrative and public buildings have been built in this part of the city. On the left bank lies the city’s industrial district, with a radial layout, founded in the early 20th century.

The northeastern part of the city, the terminus of the Keum-soosan Ridge, is dominated by the Moran-bong hill, where are found such architectural landmarks as the Eulmildae observation tower (third century, rebuilt in the 14th century and restored during the 1950’s), the Ch’ilseonmoon gate (tenth century, rebuilt in the 18th century and restored in the 1950’s), and the Chaeseundae summerhouse (third and fourth centuries, restored in the 1950’s). Moran-bong now constitutes the Municipal Park of Culture and Recreation. Prior to the 20th century Pyongyang was a city of small houses with inner courtyards and terraces. Large-scale construction projects were undertaken after the formation of the People’s Democratic Republic of Korea. In accordance with a general plan for the reconstruction of Pyongyang, adopted in 1953, new squares, such as the Kim II-sung Square, and new streets were laid out, and apartment houses were erected, including high-rise buildings.

Among the largest public facilities built between the 1950’s and the early 1970’s are the Kim II-sung State University, the Railroad Station (1957), the Grand Theater (1960), the Pyongyang Hotel (1960), the Pyongyang Palace of Students and Pioneers (1963), the Radio Station (1963–64), the Museum of the Korean Revolution (1972), the Sports Palace (1973), the Subway (first six stations opened in 1973), the People’s Palace of Culture (1974), and the Museum of Victory in the Fatherland Liberation War (1974). New industrial methods are being used in construction, and national traditions are being incorporated. Among the city’s outstanding monuments are the Liberation Monument, erected in memory of the soldiers of the Soviet Army (1947), the Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Korean People’s Army (1959), the Chollima (1961), and the Kim II-sung Statue and Monument to the Revolutionary Liberation Struggle (1972) in front of the Museum of the Korean Revolution.

Parks include the Youth Park at the foot of Moran-bong and the Taeseongsan Park on the outskirts of the city. Near Pyongyang are numerous tombs from the Koguryo period, of which the most famous are Pyokhwanboon and Sasinch’on. Educational, scientific, and cultural institutions. In Pyongyang are the Academy of Sciences of the People’s Democratic Republic of Korea, the Academy of Social Sciences, the Academy of Pedagogical Sciences, the Academy of Medical Sciences, the Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and the Academy of Forestry. The leading higher educational institutions are the University of Pyongyang and the Kim Chaek Polytechnical College. The city has institutes of medicine, education, light industry, transport, irrigation, agriculture, communications, civil engineering, commerce, foreign languages, fine arts, drama and cinematography, choreography, and physical education. The largest libraries are the State Central Library and the Library of the Academy of Sciences of the People’s Democratic Republic of Korea. Among outstanding museums are the Central Historical Museum, the Museum of the Korean Revolution, the Museum of Victory in the Fatherland Liberation War, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Central Fine Arts Museum.

The most important theaters are the Grand Theater, the Chollima State Dramatic Theater, the Moran-bong Theater, and the Pyongyang Art Theater. The city also has a conservatory and a circus. Pyongyang , P'yong-yang the capital of North Korea, in the southwest on the Taedong River: industrial centre; university (1946). Pop.: 3 284 000 (2005 est.)

Question: Pyongyang is the capital of which country?
Answer: North Korea