Kaesong is a city with exceptional historical significance located in North Hwanghae Province, just 8 kilometers south of the Korean Demilitarized Zone with South Korea. It was the capital of the Koryo Dynasty for several centuries, which has left the city with a rich heritage, including the well-preserved 10th-century Manwoldae Palace. The city blends ancient traditions with modern aspects of Korean life. Despite its proximity to the DMZ, it is a hub of activity with light industries and commerce. The historic monuments and sites in and around Kaesong were together designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area includes 12 separate elements, among them the tombs of kings of the Koryo dynasty. Kaesong also acts as a gateway for South Korean tourists visiting the DMZ and for joint economic projects, such as the now-shuttered Kaesong Industrial Complex, which once employed North and South Korean workers.
