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Topography & Elevation Map of North Korea

North Korea Elevation Facts

Average elevation 600 m (1,969 ft)
Highest point Mount Paektu: 2,750 m (9,022 ft)
Lowest point Sea of Japan (East Sea): 0 m (0 ft)
Elevation range 2,750 m (9,022 ft) from the lowest point to the highest
Highest-elevation city Samjiyŏn: 1,381 m (4,531 ft)
Lowest-elevation city Haeju: 11 m (36 ft)

North Korea is a mountainous country with rugged terrain that covers 80% of its landmass. The mountains and plateaus in North Korea have complex geological formations, including igneous rock, sedimentary rock, and metamorphic rock structures.

Flag of North Korea

The terrain in North Korea varies greatly, with numerous peaks, valleys, and plains. The eastern and western coastal lowlands are narrow with a smooth slope. In contrast, the southern plains are wide with gentle undulations.

North Korea has a well-balanced river system that consists of several major rivers such as the Amnok (or Yalu), the Tumen, and the Taedong. The large rivers have significant impacts on the nation's geography and economy.

The landscape of North Korea has affected the development of society and culture in the country. The mountainous terrain has provided a natural barrier against invasions and helped to preserve the unique social and cultural identity of the Korean people.

Highest Point in North Korea

The highest point in North Korea is Mount Paektu, which stands at an elevation of 2,750 meters. This mountain is significant for its cultural and historical value as it is believed to be the birthplace of the Korean people and has played a vital role in shaping the Koreans' identity.

Lowest Point in North Korea

The lowest point in North Korea is the Sea of Japan (East Sea), which has an elevation of 0 meters. The sea serves as North Korea's eastern border and has a significant role in the nation's economy as it provides access to the Pacific Ocean.

Countries with Similar Topography to North Korea

North Korea's topography is similar to that of its neighboring countries, such as South Korea, China, and Japan. All these countries share the same mountain ranges, river systems, and coastlines that face the East China Sea and the Yellow Sea.

Highest-Elevation Cities in North Korea

Samjiyŏn is the highest-elevation city in North Korea, at 1,381 m (4,531 ft) above sea level. The table below lists the major cities with their elevations, from highest to lowest.

City Elevation Elevation in feet
Samjiyŏn 1,381 m 4,531 ft
Kanggye 308 m 1,010 ft
Sariwon 75 m 246 ft
Chongjin 73 m 240 ft
Wonsan 39 m 128 ft
Kaesong 30 m 98 ft
Hamhung 24 m 79 ft
Pyongyang 16 m 52 ft
Nampo 12 m 39 ft
Sinuiju 12 m 39 ft
Haeju 11 m 36 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest point in North Korea?

The highest point in North Korea is Mount Paektu, at 2,750 m (9,022 ft) above sea level.

What is the lowest point in North Korea?

The lowest point in North Korea is Sea of Japan (East Sea), at 0 m (0 ft).

What is the average elevation of North Korea?

The average elevation of North Korea is 600 m (1,969 ft) above sea level, based on the CIA World Factbook.

What is the highest-elevation city in North Korea?

Samjiyŏn is the highest-elevation city in North Korea, at 1,381 m (4,531 ft) above sea level.

What is the lowest-elevation city in North Korea?

Of the cities listed for North Korea, Haeju is the lowest, at 11 m (36 ft) above sea level.

What is the elevation range in North Korea?

Elevation in North Korea ranges from 0 m (0 ft) at Sea of Japan (East Sea) to 2,750 m (9,022 ft) at Mount Paektu, a difference of 2,750 m (9,022 ft).