New Construction Activity at the Hwanggumpyong Economic Zone

               New Construction Activity at the Hwanggumpyong Economic Zone

 

By 38north

June 17, 2013

A 38 North exclusive, with contributions by Nick Hansen and Jeffrey Lewis

 

 

Summary  

 

New commercial satellite imagery indicates that China and the DPRK have accelerated the development of a joint special economic zone, located on Hwanggumpyong Island, near Dandong, China. This suggests that the two countries are moving forward with the so-called Two Islands Economic Zone (comprised of Hwanggumpyong and Wihwa Islands) despite past reports that Chinese officials had suspended the project.

 

Construction began in early fall 2012 and was largely focused in this initial phase on infrastructure improvements and closing off the zone's boundaries, which appear to encompass over 300 acres. In September 2012, China and the DPRK held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new administrative building to house the Hwanggumpyong Economic Zone Management Committee.

 

Since then, a new entrance to the Island has been built, consisting of customs and security buildings, gate houses, a paved road and a new electrical power line that terminates near the Chinese customs building. Additionally, two areas within the zone have been graded, possibly to house initial industries located in the zone. This work may be the first of a number of infrastructure improvements intended to support the industrial development of the island. Based on the current pace of construction, the zone may be ready for operation in around 2-3 years.

 

Construction at Hwanggumpyong has occurred against the backdrop of reports that China is increasingly dissatisfied with Pyongyang's behavior. If China is placing pressure on the North, it also seems to be offering continued economic assistance.

 

The bulk of work at the new free trade area has taken place after the December 2012 rocket launch that triggered Chinese support for UN sanctions against the North. Nevertheless, Chinese companies appear to have been heavily involved in most of the construction since equipment probably enters the zone via a new road from their territory.

 

There is no road into the zone from the DPRK side, although North Korean workers either live on the island or may enter by foot through a gate in the southeast corner of the zone.

 

Find the full analysis and satellite imagery here.  

 

Source: 38north.org

 

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