Nampo Dam

The Nampo Dam, also known as the West Sea Barrage (Korean: 서해갑문; Hanja: 西海閘門; RR: Seohae Gapmun), is a large tidal barrage located near the city of Nampo, North Korea. Situated where the Taedong River empties into the Yellow Sea (referred to as the West Sea in Korea), the dam serves multiple purposes, including irrigation, flood control, and improved navigation for river traffic.

Construction of the Nampo Dam began in 1981 and was completed in 1986. The eight-kilometer-long barrage consists of three main locks, 36 sluice gates, and a fish ladder. These features regulate the flow of water between the river and the sea, mitigating the effects of tides and saltwater intrusion.

The dam plays a significant role in North Korea's agricultural sector by providing a reliable source of fresh water for irrigation purposes in surrounding farmlands. It also helps to prevent flooding in the low-lying areas near the Taedong River's estuary. The locks enable ships to navigate the barrage, improving access to and from the port of Nampo and facilitating trade and transportation along the river.

While the Nampo Dam has contributed to North Korea's infrastructure and economy, its construction and operation have also raised environmental concerns. Altering the natural flow of the river and blocking tidal exchange can impact the local ecosystem, potentially affecting fish populations and water quality.