Samjiyon

Samjiyŏn is a city in Ryanggang Province, North Korea. It takes its name from three lakes in the city, which are collectively known as the Samjiyŏn. Samjiyŏn is situated near Mount Paektu, and tour groups fly to the city's airport to see the mountain, which holds significance in North Korean mythology. Many houses and buildings in Samjiyŏn have been upgraded in recent decades, and many new buildings, including a recreational centre for youths, were finished in 2005. Popular activities in Samjiyŏn are skiing and various activities for schoolchildren, who use the surrounding area of Mt. Paektu for various scouting-like operations in conjunction with school-led vacations or outings. In December 2019, Kim Jong Un opened a completed expansion of the existing township, described by state media as a "modern" city with residences and industrial parks. The city was known as a county until a decision to upgrade its status was made in December 2019. The modernization of Samjiyon City is to also help boost tourism to North Korea. The city opened for international tourists in December 2024.