Inchon

Inchon (pop. 1,817,900), Yellow River port city located in the northwestern part of South Korea. In ancient times Inchon relied mainly upon fishing, but after foreign nations forced Korea to open up to international trade in the 1880s, it developed into a major port. In 1950, during the Korean war, the U.S. made a surprise landing at Inchon, turning back the invading North Koreans. Located about 20 mi (32 km) from the capital city of Seoul, Inchon has been a major industrial center since the late 1960s. It produces chemicals, iron, steel, and textiles, in addition to thriving in the areas of fishing and shipping.

See also: Korea; Korean War.