Directory_and_Chronicle_1927 — Page 591

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KUNSAN

Kunsan, one of the ports opened to foreign trade on the 1st May, 1899, is situated at the mouth of the Yong Dang River, which runs for many miles, forming the boundary line between the two provinces of Cholla-do and Chung-Chong-do, on the West Coast of Corea, and lies about halfway between Chemulpo and Mokpo. The two provinces referred to are so noted for their abundant supply of agricultural produce that they are called the magazines of the peninsula. The principal articles of export are rice, wheat, beans, different kinds of medicines, ox-hides, grasscloth, paper, bamboo articles, fans (both open and folding), screens and mats, bêche de mer, dried awabi, with various kinds of fish and seaweed. Among import goods, shirtings, lawns, cotton yarn, matches, kerosene oil, etc., had already found their way to the port prior to its opening for distribution to different markets. Rice is largely exported from Kunsan, and Japanese farmers have been attracted in considerable numbers to this neighbourhood.

SONG-JIN

城津

This port (Joshin) is situated on the north-eastern coast of Chosen (Corea), in the province of North Ham-kyong, about 250 nautical miles from Wonsan and 125 nautical miles from Vladivostock. It was opened to foreign trade on the 1st May, 1899. The harbour is ice-free. The anchorage is not spacious, though very easy of access, and vessels drawing 10 feet or so can lie within a quarter of a mile from the shore. Improved jetty accommodation has encouraged the visits of vessels to the port. It is becoming an important place of call for all steamers engaged in the coastal trade, and a regular service has been opened between the port and Tsuruga. There is a railway connecting with Hoilyong, a town on the northern frontier, and a small line to the capital of the province. The exports chiefly consist of beans, cowhides, hemp cloth and bêche de mer, whilst cotton goods, kerosene oil, ironware and matches form the principal items of imports.