Pyeongtaek

Pyeongtaek is a city in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. It lies in the southwestern part of the province, on the western coast near the Yellow Sea, about 70 kilometers south of Seoul. The city is a regional logistics hub and hosts Camp Humphreys, a major United States military base that serves as a significant presence in the area. The Port of Pyeongtaek and related industrial zones contribute to the local economy. The population is roughly in the hundreds of thousands, with a mix of urban neighborhoods and rural districts.

Historically, the area was largely rural and agricultural within the Gyeonggi region. Growth accelerated with improvements to transportation networks and coastal development in the late 20th century. The establishment and expansion of Camp Humphreys brought international residents and services, influencing housing, commerce, and urban planning.

Economy and infrastructure are centered on the Port of Pyeongtaek, which handles container and bulk cargo and supports regional manufacturing and distribution. The city is connected to Seoul and western Korea by major expressways and rail lines, making it a key logistics corridor. The presence of the U.S. military base supports local services, housing, and retailers, while domestic industries include manufacturing and agriculture.

Geography and demographics cover coastal and inland terrains with a temperate climate. The population includes a sizable foreign community associated with the base, along with long-standing Korean residents. The urban core concentrates around transportation nodes and the port, while surrounding areas maintain agricultural activity.

Education and culture in Pyeongtaek include several higher education institutions and cultural facilities, in addition to markets and waterfront areas that reflect its role as a port and logistics hub. The city has seen ongoing urban development and investment in housing, industry, and public services.