YEONPYEONG

• Latitude: 33.50795
• Longitude: 126.9419
• North China
• Port in South Korea

Location: South Korea

Yeonpyeong is a small island located in the Yellow Sea, close to the Northern Limit Line that separates South Korea and North Korea. It is a part of Ongjin County in Incheon, South Korea. Due to its strategic location and tense geopolitical situation, the island has a modest but significant maritime port facility. Here’s a detailed description and specification of the Yeonpyeong marine port:

General Information:

Name: Yeonpyeong Marine Port
Location: Yeonpyeong Island, Ongjin County, Incheon, South Korea
Coordinates: 37°39′N 125°41′E
Function: Primarily serves fishing, ferry operations, and limited commercial activities. It is also of strategic military significance due to its proximity to North Korea.

Port Specifications:

Harbor Type: Coastal natural harbor with man-made enhancements.

Size: A relatively small port facility designed to accommodate local ferry services, fishing boats, and supply vessels.

Depth:

• Entrance Channel: Approximately 6-8 meters, making it suitable for smaller vessels.
• Berth Depth: Varies between 3-6 meters consistent with servicing fishing boats and small to mid-sized vessels.

Facilities:

• Ferry Terminal: The port has facilities to support ferry services that connect Yeonpyeong Island to the mainland (Incheon).
• Fishing Dock: There are dedicated docks and storage facilities for the local fishing industry.
• Cargo Handling Equipment: Limited cargo handling capabilities due to the predominant focus on fishing and passenger transport rather than large-scale commercial shipping.
• Naval Presence: The port has a military presence due to the island's strategic location, including facilities for coast guard and naval patrol boats.
• Shelter: The port offers moderate protection from harsh weather due to natural formations and man-made breakwaters.

Transportation Links:

• Ferry Services: Regular ferry services to and from Yeonpyeong ensure connectivity with the mainland, making it vital for transporting passengers and supplies.
• Road Access: Infrastructure on the island is limited, with roadways linking the port to local facilities and settlements.

Additional Information:

Security and Monitoring:

• Military and Coast Guard Monitoring: Due to its proximity to North Korea, the port and surrounding waters are heavily monitored.
• Customs and Immigration: Facilities are equipped to handle immigration and customs for arrivals and departures.

Environmental Considerations:

• Marine Life: The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, crucial for the local fishing industry.
• Sustainability Efforts: Due to its small scale, efforts are typically focused on minimizing environmental impact from fishing operations.

Geopolitical Significance:

• The port and the island have been the focus of several military incidents and are vital for sovereignty and defense operations of South Korea.

Conclusion:

While Yeonpyeong Marine Port is not a major commercial hub, its strategic importance can’t be overstated. It serves as a critical point for fishing activities, local transportation, and military presence in the region, ensuring both the livelihood of its residents and the security of the nation.