Chuuk

Chuuk, historically known as Truk, is one of the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia, a sovereign nation in the western Pacific Ocean. The state comprises numerous islands and coral atolls surrounding the large Chuuk Lagoon. The capital is Weno, located on Weno Island (formerly called Moen).

Geography plays a central role in Chuuk. The Chuuk Lagoon is a sizeable, sheltered body of water with many islets and reefs, home to diverse marine life and a famed wreck-diving site from World War II. The archipelago includes dozens of inhabited and uninhabited islands, with the administrative and population centers concentrated on a few larger islands such as Moen/Weno.

History is a key aspect of Chuuk’s profile. During World War II, the lagoon served as a major Japanese naval base. In 1944, Allied forces conducted Operation Hailstone, resulting in the sinking of numerous ships and aircraft; many wrecks remain in the lagoon and are visited by divers today. In the modern era, Chuuk became part of the Federated States of Micronesia when the FSM established its constitutional government in 1979, and the United States maintains a Compact of Free Association with the FSM.

Demographics and government: The population is in the tens of thousands. Chuukese is the predominant language, with English widely used in government, education, and commerce. The state has its own governor and legislature within the FSM framework, with Weno serving as the capital.

Economy and transport: The economy relies on subsistence farming and fishing, along with copra, small-scale commerce, and a growing tourism sector centered on diving and nature. Chuuk International Airport on Weno is the main gateway, and inter-island transport is provided by boats and small aircraft.