YuzhnoKurilsk

Yuzhno-Kurilsk is a town and the administrative center of the Yuzhno-Kurilsky District on Sakhalin Oblast, Russia. It is located on Shikotan Island in the southern Kuril chain. The town's economy is primarily based on fishing and fish processing.

Historically, the area was inhabited by the Ainu people. Following World War II, the southern Kuril Islands, including Shikotan, were incorporated into the Soviet Union. Yuzhno-Kurilsk was established as a Soviet settlement and later became a significant fishing port. The town has experienced periods of development and change related to its strategic location and resource-based economy.

The climate in Yuzhno-Kurilsk is humid continental, characterized by cool summers and relatively mild winters compared to mainland Siberia due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean. The surrounding natural environment is known for its rugged coastline and diverse marine life.

The population of Yuzhno-Kurilsk consists mainly of Russians. The town serves as a base for fishing fleets operating in the Sea of Okhotsk and the Pacific Ocean. Infrastructure includes port facilities, fish processing plants, and essential services for the local population. Transportation links are primarily by sea, with occasional air connections. The town's isolation and reliance on marine resources define its unique character and challenges.