YOSU

city, Cholla-nam do (province), on Yosu Peninsula, extreme southern South Korea. Such large islands as Namhae, Dolsan, and Kumo protect its natural port. The Korean navy headquarters was located there during the Yi dynasty (13921910) before being moved to T'ongjeyong (present Ch'ungmu). In 1949 it became an open port with the status of a municipality. It is connected with Seoul by rail through Kwangju and Taejon, and it has regular sea lines to Pusan, Mokp'o, and Cheju. The harbour is divided into two parts: the old western port is used mainly for fishing, and the new eastern port for trade. The city exports fresh fish. Petrochemical and other industries have been developed in the Yochon Industrial District. Pop. (1990 prelim.) 173,164.