북한의 평안남도간척지 개발정책과 이용실태

Abstract

The purpose of North Korea’s land reclamation policy is to expand the area of paddy fields in order to increase rice production. Pyongan South Province was developed at an early stage due to its favorable geographical conditions for land reclamation, such as shallow water depths and extensive tidal flats along the lower reaches of the Cheongcheon River. Additionally, it was able to utilize the abundant water resources from the upper reaches of the Cheongcheon River to supply the necessary irrigation water for the reclaimed fields. However, despite decades of land reclamation efforts, the stagnation of grain production can be attributed to infrastructure issues. Outdated water control facilities, problems with irrigation channels (earthen canals), insufficient water supply, and inadequate reservoirs were among the poor infrastructure conditions. These infrastructure problems, including water loss, water scarcity during droughts, flooding due to heavy rainfall, and salinization from seawater intrusion, have hindered the expected production effects of land reclamation. Nevertheless, North Korea emphasizes land reclamation as one of its major development policies for several reasons. Firstly, it aims to appease public sentiment amidst economic stagnation by demonstrating visible achievements. Secondly, although immediate effects may be difficult to achieve, it is believed that the value of reclaimed paddy fields can increase in the future if the irrigation system is improved.