Pyongyang is the capital of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
Pyongyang is 84 metres above sea level on average. Blending in with the surrounding mountains, hills, fields and the meandering Taedong River, it has long been known for its stunning scenery. As a city, it dates back to the early 30th century BC when King Tangun, the founding father of the Korean nation, established Ancient Joson with Pyongyang as its capital.
After President Kim Il Sung liberated Korea on August 15, 1945 and established the DPRK on September 9, 1948, the city’s new history began as the capital of a sovereign and independent state.
During the Fatherland Liberation War (June 25, 1950-July 27, 1953) the US imperialists dropped on the city more than 428 000 bombs, a figure greater than the population of the city at the time, reducing it to ashes. The heroic Korean people, however, healed the war wounds in a short period of time.
Today Pyongyang is a modern city as a hub of politics, the economy and culture.
The city sprawls out with Kim Il Sung Square as its centre. The streets from downtown to suburbs were laid out in full consideration of the citizens’ labour activities, residence and recreation.
Since the 1970s new streets, including Chollima, Munsu, Changgwang, Kwangbok, Rangnang, Chongchun, Mansudae, Changjon, Mirae Scientists, Ryomyong, Songhwa, Hwasong, Rimhung and Jonwi, have been built one after another, facelifting the whole city beyond recognition.
The Mangyongdae Revolutionary Site, the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the Korean Revolution Museum, the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum, the Grand Monument on Mansu Hill, the Tower of the Juche Idea, the Arch of Triumph, the Monument to Party Founding and other revolutionary sites, monuments and towers in different parts of the city honour President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il, their immortal exploits and the brilliant traditions and history of the Korean people’s struggle.
The city is home to first-rate educational, cultural and public health establishments, sports and cultural facilities and scientific research institutions.
It is known as one of the cradles of humankind and the birthplace of the Taedonggang Culture, one of the world’s five cultures, and it boasts many invaluable historical and cultural relics and sites.
