Nakdong

The Nakdong River, or Nakdong-gang, is the longest river in South Korea, with a length of about 510 kilometers. It drains much of the southeastern peninsula, rising in the eastern Taebaek Mountains and flowing generally south and east to the Korea Strait, where its estuary lies near Busan. The river’s watershed covers a large portion of Gyeongsang Province and supports several major urban areas, agricultural lands, and industrial activity.

Along its course, the Nakdong collects water from numerous tributaries and traverses cities such as Daegu before reaching the coast. The river basin sustains irrigation for farms, supplies drinking water to communities, and supports fisheries and tourism. The Nakdong Estuary is recognized for its biodiversity and is a focal point for conservation and environmental management.

Historically, the Nakdong region has been important in Korean development and culture. During the Korean War, the Nakdong River formed a critical defensive line around the Pusan Perimeter, contributing to the Allied defense and subsequent military operations in the early phase of the conflict.

Environmental management in the Nakdong basin involves flood control, water supply, and ecosystem protection. Various dams, reservoirs, and water treatment facilities help regulate flow and quality, while conservation programs aim to preserve the estuary’s habitats and migratory bird populations. The Nakdong remains a key geographic and economic feature of southeastern Korea.